Are you renting an apartment, unit or house and have pet?
Here are some FAQs, guidelines and tips to get your bond back pronto!
1. What is end-of-lease pest control?
End of lease pest control mainly involves hiring a professional to treat your rental property for pests as part of your agreement with the agent or realtor before you vacate. When you have a pet such as a dog or a cat, they sometimes leave behind active fleas or their eggs. So it’s often required by the real estate firm or landlords to ensure the property is free from vermin for the next tenant.
2. Why is pest control required at the END of a lease?
Pest control is normally mentioned in your tenancy agreement to take care of pests like cockroaches, ants and spiders during your lease. This is to prevent the spread of pests that have entered your home through no fault of your own. If you have a pet and have exposed it to other pet’s fleas without treating it, it could mean that the property is not habitable for the next occupant. This is a situation where you need to ensure the following occupant is not liable to a flea infestation caused insufficient maintenance of your pet and you need to take action before you leave.
3. Do I need to arrange pest control myself or will the real estate agency arrange?
You need to read what it states about this within your lease agreement. Some rental agreements require tenants to organise and pay for pest control before moving out, while others might include it as part of the property’s maintenance. If you have a cat or dog, it will almost always be your responsibility to arrange and pay for it. Always check your lease agreement or call your realtor or landlord.
4. What types of pests should be treated?
General pests include ants, cockroaches, rodents, and spiders. A flea treatment ONLY applies if you have a dog or a cat. The type of treatment will depend on if you are a pet owner or the cause of pests present in the property through a lack of hygiene.
5. How much does end of lease pest control cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of the property, the type of treatment required, and the distance from the pest control company. On average, it can cost anywhere between $150 and $300.
6. How do I find a good pest control service?
Look for a licensed and insured pest control company with positive Google reviews. Ask for recommendations from friends or family and get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
7. When should I schedule pest control?
Ideally try to arrange pest control a few days before your lease ends to ensure the treatment has time to take effect. Make sure it’s done after cleaning and before you officially move out and return the keys.
8. What should I do to prepare for the flea spray?
Preparation might include:
- Cleaning the property thoroughly.
- Removing any food or personal items.
- Ensuring the pest control technician has access to all areas.
- Treating your pet
- Mowing the lawn
- Following any other instructions provided by the pest control firm.
9. Are there any safety concerns?
There shouldn’t be any concerns if your pest technician is licenced and using low or non-toxic insecticides. Ensure that your pets and children are kept away from the technician applying the spray and treated areas. Ventilate the property well by opening doors and windows after treatment if required.
10. What if pests are found after I move out?
If pests are discovered after you’ve moved out, it’s typically the landlord’s responsibility to address the issue. However, if you didn’t obtain a treatment certificate to fulfill your end of lease obligations, the landlord or realtor might withhold part of your bond.
Quick Tips for End of Lease Pest Control
- Read Your Lease Agreement:Read carefully to understand your obligations regarding pest control before scheduling any treatments.
- Get photographic Evidence of Pest Issues: If you encounter pests during your tenancy, document them with photos and inform your landlord to avoid disputes later.
- Choose a Reputable Company: Ensure the pest control service is licensed and has good Google reviews to help guarantee effective treatment.
- Plan Ahead: Schedule pest control well in advance of your move out date to allow time for any necessary follow-up treatments.
- Keep Records: Keep receipts and records of the pest control service as proof that you’ve fulfilled your lease obligations.
- Follow Instructions: Follow any preparation or safety instructions provided by the pest control company to ensure a successful treatment.
- Clean Thoroughly: A clean property is less attractive to pests and ensures that the treatment is more effective.
- For further information: Visit https://www.a1pestcontrol.com.au/pest-control/end-lease-flea-treatment/ for more tips and information on End of Lease Pest Control.
