What Landlords Should Know About Termite Prevention

Landlords are responsible for termite pest control and repairing the damage caused by the pests in their rental homes. A single incidence of termite infestation can cost landlords thousands of dollars in repairs and restorations. Hence, timely termite prevention and control is extremely important for rental property owners.

An annual termite inspection can offer several benefits to landlords, including peace of mind. Since a termite infestation may go unnoticed until severe damage is done, proactive control is necessary. Professional pest control experts know where termites tend to thrive and hence can quickly identify the location of colonies. They can also educate you on how to identify the signs of an infestation yourself. As a result, a professional inspection can help you protect your home from structural damage and save thousands of dollars in repairs and restorations. 

Here’s what you can do as a landlord for termite prevention at your rental property.

Don’t Store Wood Nearby

Wood will attract termites, so avoid keeping or storing wood in spaces like outdoor cellars, steps, crawl spaces, decks or even on the soil that is in contact with the home. Create a proper storage structure or woodshed to store wooden materials safely, and discard the used wooden items immediately. 

Use Insect Screens

One of the easiest forms of termite prevention is to install insect screens to prevent termites and other pests from entering your home. Cover all the windows and outside vents of your property with these, ensuring they don’t have any holes in them and are in good condition.

Keep the Surroundings Free From Mulch

Mulch is an ideal environment for termites to thrive in as it has cellulose on which these bugs feed. It also retains moisture which promotes termite growth. Having mulch around your home is like creating an irresistible path that will more than likely lead these pests right into your home. 

Seal Any Holes or Cracks

If you notice any holes or cracks in and around your home, they should be sealed immediately. Even the smallest holes or cracks could serve as an easy entry point for pests like termites. 

Spring Termite Inspections 

Termites generally come out of hiding during the spring months, so it’s a good idea to schedule a professional termite inspection during this season. They can show up anywhere, tending to accumulate the most around the frames of doors and windows. Other spots include light sources, wood beams and outdoor walls. 

Educate Yourself and Your Tenant

Landlords and tenants are equally responsible for pest control and keeping the rental property pest-free. You should educate your tenants about termite prevention and infestation so they can be proactive. A simple yet effective way to achieve this is making them aware of the early signs of a termite infestation, which include the below.

• Hollow Wood: Check the wooden surfaces by knocking on them. If you hear a hollow sound, you may have a termite infestation. Even wood that crumbles easily indicates the presence of termites. 

• Moisture or Leaks: These spots attract termites. Keep an eye out for them and fix them with appropriate treatment. 

• Cracked Walls or Spoiled Paint: Termites eat their way from inside and get closer to the surface. If you see peeling or bubbling paint or cracks in the walls, there may be a termite infestation underneath that surface. 

• Mud tubes on Outer Walls: Termites create mud tubes when they move up from the ground into a wooden structure. Such tubes can be easily spotted on the outer walls of your property.

Other signs include tiny holes in drywall, loose or sagging tiles and a temporary swarm of winged insects that resemble ants in and around the home.

Termite infestation can be prevented if you act proactively. If you want to rent your property, follow the above-mentioned tips for termite prevention. Consider residential pest control and calling professional services as their inspections are thorough and provide effective results.