Whether you own or rent, living in a condo means you have to be more vigilant about pest control. Sharing a building with others means if they develop a pest problem, there is a high probability that it may make its way to your unit. Put a plan in place with these tips to keep your condo pest-free.

Tip #1: Check With the Owner's Association

First and foremost, you need to check with the owner's or building association to find out the pest control schedule for your condo. Community-provided pest control varies greatly. Your association may only provide pest treatments for community areas, such as hallways, lobbies, and stairwells, or they may have treatments performed in each unit.

Once you know where they supply control and how often, you need to know what they are controlling for. Is it bugs only? Such as spiders and cockroaches? Or do they also inspect and treat for mice or bed bugs? You may also need to find out if the company offers non-toxic options for units that house pets or children.

If your association doesn't provide treatments for individual units, you may need to contact the pest control company on your own to set up a service schedule.

Tip #2: Bug-Proof Your Pantry

Most pest problems, whether it's mice or insects, begins in the pantry. Storing everything in tightly sealed glass, metal, or heavy-duty plastic containers can prevent the pests from ever noticing that your condo exists. Also, make sure to wipe down counters, brush out cabinets, and sweep daily. Any crumbs or sticky residue is a magnet for pests.

Tip #3: Protect Your Bed

For those in shared buildings, bed bugs can be the most worrisome of pests. They travel through the wall cracks, so if your neighbor has bed bugs they may find their way to you. Your best defense is to use bed bug interceptor cups, which prevent the pests from climbing into bed with you. You place a cup beneath the legs of your bed, and you can also use them on sofas and other upholstered furniture.

A bed bug-proof mattress bag also provides protection. Just make sure your bed doesn't touch the walls and that there is no dust ruffle or blankets dangling off the bed and onto the floor.

Tip #4: Skip the Cardboard

Cardboard boxes attract bugs and mice. Many bugs, from cockroaches to moths, will live in boxes and feed on the cardboard. Mice also tend to make nests in cardboard. If you need to store items in your condo, opt for plastic storage tubs. These are generally pest-proof, and they will also protect your items from moisture and humidity.

Tip #5: Don't Overlook Your Closet

Clothes moths can make short work of wool, cashmere, and other natural animal fibers in your closet. Your best defense is to store susceptible items in plastic sweater boxes, or to use cedar balls or moth balls in the closet. Wash every new item you bring into the house before placing it in the closet to prevent a moth infestation in the first place.

For more information, check out companies such as Antex Exterminating Co Inc.

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