In-House Pest Control

Part of the IPM Team

Property staff must be involved in the integrated pest management (IPM) team regardless of whether your pest control services are in-house or by contract. Expectations outlined in the Sample RFP can apply to both contractors and in-house staff. Pest management professionals (PMPs) will supply a notice and preparation instructions. PMPs can't complete their jobs without cooperation from site staff and residents. At a minimum, property management must support the PMP in the following ways:

  • Notify residents ahead of the time of service and be certain they understand how to prepare.
  • Make sure the PMP has access to units.
  • Follow up on repair and housekeeping requests.
  • Keep an on-site IPM log where progress on focus units is recorded.
  • Ensure pesticides are handled properly. Visit pesticidestewardship.org for more information on the safe handling of pesticides.

IPM Procedure

Following is a standard IPM procedure many in-house programs follow.

  1. Quarterly, units receive routine pest inspection
    1. Notifications are sent out that include preparation instructions for basic clean-up and removal of items from under the sink, on top of the stove, and on top of the refrigerator(s).
    2. In each unit, the PMP:
      1. Inspects in every room; checks and replaces (or places, if none were present) monitors.
      2. Vacuums or cleans up insect evidence with "HEPA" vacuum. (Wipes up rodent evidence with disinfectant.)
      3. Makes notes on the Routine Service Log.
      4. Treats if live insects are found (corrective) or if activity in an adjacent area may increase pest pressure. Uses at least two control methods (cultural, mechanical, biological, or chemical). Applies no aerosols or sprays without the property manager’s permission, and never uses foggers.
      5. Makes notes on Unit Service Ticket in accordance with state recordkeeping requirements.
    3. Office staff receive the Routine Service Log and Unit Service Ticket(s). They create work orders and make necessary copies for pest control files.
    4. IPM team members follow up.
  2. Monthly: follow up in focus units, common areas, and exterior
    1. Quarterly: Exterior rodent control
    2. In-unit follow-ups: caulk cracks and crevices, vacuum extensively, etc.
  3. As reported: work orders for pest control. Follow the unit procedure above.