An Inside Look at Urban Pest Control for Apartment Living

In urban environments, pests can cause large-scale infestations extremely quickly. Pests tend to gravitate toward cities because of the sheer volume of food sources and shelter, and since pests can quickly reproduce, a small problem can rapidly become widespread. In a matter of weeks or even days, roaches, rodents, bed bugs, and other pests can infiltrate homes and businesses, maneuvering from one building to another with ease. Exterminators may need to employ urban pest control strategies to tackle widespread infestations for good, and city dwellers should take appropriate precautions to avoid severe infestations.

Navigating the Urban Jungle: Identifying Common Pests

Managing pests in urban areas presents unique challenges. Urban areas, especially in the Eastern U.S., typically have closely placed structures, which increases the likelihood of pests like cockroaches and rodents moving from one building (or unit) to another. And unfortunately, the kinds of pests that are most active in urban areas tend to pose the most serious health risks. Pests that thrive in urban environments include:

Bring in the Pros If You Have an Infestation in Your Apartment

Despite our best efforts, sometimes pest infestations can still occur. When infestations happen, especially if you live in a major city, you should contact a professional pest control company or your superintendent immediately. We don’t recommend attempting interventions on your own — DIY methods are often ineffective, and failure to report an active infestation can lead to larger scale problems that extend beyond your property or even your neighborhood. An exterminator who specializes in urban pest control will be able to address your problem much more quickly than you can on your own, and your property manager should be able to help you get in touch with the right professionals.

How to Prevent Urban Pest Infestations

Like we always say, it’s always better to prevent an infestation than to address an active one. Doing your part as a resident doesn’t just offer you protection — it helps protect your neighborhood and community. By sealing entry points, keeping your home clean, and scheduling regular inspections, you can reduce your risk of an infestation, or at minimum, ensure your pest problems are less severe. And keep in mind, if you live in an apartment complex or high rise, your superintendent or property manager should always be informed if you spot any kind of pest activity or vulnerabilities.

Properly Seal Entry Points

Pests are opportunistic invaders, exploiting any available entry points to infiltrate our homes. Check for holes, cracks, and gaps around doors, windows, and trash chutes. Once identified, these entry points can be effectively sealed using materials like steel wool, caulk, and metal screening to prevent pests from penetrating our homes. Installing door sweeps or thresholds at the base of exterior doors can block crawling pests, while repairing damaged window screens can prevent flying insects from getting in.

Before you make a run to your local home improvement store or bodega — if you’re a renter, contact your superintendent! They may want to bring in the professionals to pest-proof your home, and you don’t want to get fined for potential damages.

Keep Your Environment Clean

The promise of readily available food and shelter attracts pests to our homes. By staying tidy, you can make your home less appealing to pests. Do your best to:

• Place dirty dishes in the dishwasher or hand wash immediately after use
• Regularly wipe down countertops to eliminate food residue
• Keep your kitchen garbage can clean and emptied
• Seal open food products using airtight containers

Schedule Inspections

Routine inspections and sprayings can significantly reduce the likelihood you experience a pest problem. If you live in an apartment complex, you probably already have inspections mandated by your building manager. But if you don’t already have routine pest control professionals at your home, you should make that a priority. The pros can spot vulnerabilities and provide recommendations so you can best safeguard your property.