Fixing bug problem before renting out

Fixing bug problem before renting out

Investor · DC Maryland, Virginia(DMV) · Member since 2021 · 16 posts · 1 vote

I own a 3-bedroom, 2-bath condo that I bought specifically to be a rental property. It was a bit of a fixer-upper, but I'm getting close to having it ready to lease. I’m not in a rush—right now I’m just saving up to finish the bathroom renovation and cover six months of rental expenses.

In the laundry room, there's a flood drain for the HVAC system, and unfortunately bugs seem to be coming in through it(assuming). I've put down sticky traps inside of the laundry room doorway and have been catching spiders, small roaches, and earwigs.

The HOA is great about spraying the exterior of the unit when I call, and I've also bought some commercial-grade spray that I mix and apply around the outside myself. I've been treating the baseboards inside too.

As a landlord, I plan to keep spraying around the property and do interior treatments every six months during walkthroughs. That said, I’d really like to get this bug issue under control before I start renting it out. It's nothing crazy but I can't expect the tenant to keep sticky traps in the laundry room. 

Any suggestions?

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Member since 2022 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
1y

I don't know your plumbing specs, but could you put a screen in the drain that would block the critters but allow drainage? Advise the tenant to maintain it in case it clogs up. If it works,  Then the pests are his problem not yours.

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  • Bruce WoodruffPro Member
    Contractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votes
    1y

    Call a professioal exterminator and get their help. They will know all of the tricks....

  • Member since 2022 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    1y

    I don't know your plumbing specs, but could you put a screen in the drain that would block the critters but allow drainage? Advise the tenant to maintain it in case it clogs up. If it works,  Then the pests are his problem not yours.

  • Property Manager · OK · Member since 2024 · 98 posts · 74 votes
    1y

    In my opinion, it will be better if you call a pest control pro for a one-time deep treatment before the tenant moves in. They can inspect the drain and nearby spots to pinpoint the problem/source and use special products you might not have access to. An expert can also help you identify the entry point you might have overlooked and suggest ways to prevent future issues. It's a small upfront cost that can save you bigger headaches and complaints once tenants are in.

  • Rental Property Investor · Chattanooga, TN · Member since 2017 · 203 posts · 188 votes
    1y

    Is there a way to add a p trap to that drain?

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