PESTS
People belong in houses ... critters don't.
Every property in San Diego will eventually encounter pests at some point,
but we've seen patterns over the years to help avoid them or -- when they do come -- quickly squash the problem.
We invite you to read through the below policy to see what our responsibilities
ownership and residents each have to keep your property critter-free.
What's your general approach to pests?
We aren't aware of any pest problems at any property we manage. And, we intend to keep it that way. Over the years, there have been some cases that have required decisive action to eliminate -- we are committed to the same the next time something happens.
We can't 100% prevent pests, but we CAN aggressively prevent and respond when they are found. That's a partnership between management and residents -- we can't help unless we know what's happening, and encourage all residents to reach out if there's ever a problem they aren't sure they know how to address.
It's in everyone's interest to avoid prest problems ... and handle them quickly if they occur.
Whose responsibility is it if we find pests in our home?
The answer is more complicated than you may think. Read our pest policy for full details. In short, we generally handles pests for apartment homes with multiple shared walls. Tenants generally handle pests in more townhome / single family home properties.
Is there state law governing pest control?
Yep. You're probably thinking of California Civil Code Section 1941.2. Landlords are responsible for resolving pest problems. Tenants are responsible for paying for pest problems if pests are caused by something the tenant is doing. Our Pest Policy describes how we handle that decision.
I'm seeing ants in my kitchen. What should I do?
As described in our Pest Policy, some properties have a professional pest control contract in place. If you live in one of these properties, the pest control company will come out and use appropriate means to deal with the situation. If you live in a property treated like a single family home, we encourage residents to (a) eliminate whatever the ants are attracted to and (b) consider common chemical control products available at Home Depot and elsewhere.
Are ants a seasonal problem?
For sure. 90%+ of ant problems occur in the late summer months - between Aug and October. They tend to stay outside during other months.
What about cockroaches?
San Diego has two common types of roaches -- German roaches and American roaches. German cockroaches are the smaller variety that prefer interior spaces and are generally what we control for. Roaches only come indoors when they find food or other reason to be there -- roach control always starts with removing whatever they are feeding on. Cleanliness and avoiding clutter will generally prevent roaches from joining you indoors. When they do establish themselves indoors, it's very important to treat early and prevent problems from getting bigger -- please reach out to us for suggestions.
If roaches are found in a building with multiple shared walls, you can expect quick and aggressive treatment in all neighboring units to ensure problems do not spread.
What about termites?
Sometimes termite infestations can be treated with local treatments. Other times, fumigation tenting is required. We rely on professionals to make the assessment.
When tenting is required, 3 days, a few weeks out, will be selected for the fumigation. The fumigation company will seek landlord authorization and tenant authorizations for the treatment. In preparation for the fumigation, tenants will be provided a fumigation planning guide. It is important to read this carefully. Tenants will have to properly bag food and medicines with nylofume bags and move plants and other items away from the walls of the home so the tents may be set up properly. Pets and people may NOT stay at the home during the fumigation. A stipend equal to a pro-rated rent rate is provided for your alternative housing arrangements. We recommend booking your alternative housing as soon as possible to avoid high costs. Airbnb, motels, family or friends are a good option.
On the first day of the tenting, SDGE will come out to turn off the gas. They will also come back on the last day to turn the gas back on for your return. Keys will have to be accessible to the fumigation company and SDGE so they can access your unit. All structures, including garages and sheds, will have to be accessible. You should wait for a text by us, your landlord, before returning home. Generally, you should leave the home at latest 10am on the first day and return no earlier than 4pm on the last day.
We thank you for your support during the termite treatment process. It is in everyone's best interest that the homes are termite-free, and the homes are safe, free of structural damage.