Maintenance managers have so many responsibilities throughout the spring and summer and pest management can become a time consuming and costly issue if not addressed correctly. Taking a reactive approach is a mistake, and could potentially lead to infestations, property damage, and unsafe working conditions.

Maintenance and facility managers need to prioritize pest control by taking action to deter rodents, bugs, and birds from impacting their business:

Rodents

Rodents are typically attracted to the interior of the building to find food, so keeping food sources secure and your waste management clean can help to deter interest in your building. Additionally, rodents could be seeking entry to warm up, cool down, or for nesting, so securing the building is critical in deterring entry.

Mice can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter, so sealing any available entry points is key.  Check the building exterior and utility pipes for cracks or holes, ensure doors and windows close tightly, and repair missing weather stripping, door sweeps, and window screens. You may also want to install protective screens over HVAC air intakes and exhaust vents to stop rodents from access the interior of the building. Also, cutting tree branches and bushes (away from the building) can help prevent pests from using branches as a bridge to your roof.

Look for signs like droppings, chewed wires, or foul odours that could indicate the need to take action.

Insects

Bugs are generally attracted to food sources, so ensuring that your waste management areas are regularly cleaned and emptied will help. Insects can also be drawn to light sources, so consider setting timers or installing sensored systems to help eliminate consistent light around your building at night.

If you have gardens, there are some plants you can incorporate that will help deter bugs from coming near. Plants like citronella, lemongrass, and mint, along with flowers like marigolds and petunias can help keep bugs off your property.

Birds

Birds can quickly turn into a nuisance if they decide to build nests or find a water source on your property. Check your roof seasonally for ponding water which may attract birds, and clear your drains if you find any standing water on your roof. Install physical deterrents like spikes and netting to prevent birds from landing and settling on your building.

To stay on top of a potential issue, train your teams to recognize early signs of bird activity like droppings or a buildup around rooftop equipment or water features.

The warmer weather and cooler nights can encourage pests like nesting birds, seasonal bugs, or pests looking to seek refuge from the heat. Maintenance teams need to stay vigilant in looking for signs, taking preventative action where possible, and addressing the issues as they arise as part of their pest management plan this season.