Since dealing with pest infestation can seem expensive, landlords opt for affordable pest control methods.
But, these alternative pest control methods can be ineffective and risky, posing high risk to both properties and tenants’ health.
Therefore, in this post, we will discuss reasons landlords opt for cheap pest control methods and why that’s risky.
Reasons Landlords Choose Cheap and Ineffective Pest Control Methods
1. Cost Savings
Homeowners’ choices of pest control methods to use are particularly influenced by cost considerations.
Mainly, the competitiveness of the rental market and their desire to maximize profit lead them to choose the lowest-cost option available, fearing to spend out-of-pocket for full-scale pest control.
2. Assumption of Pest Control Being Unnecessary
Some homeowners consider pest control an unnecessary undertaking, especially if tenants fail to inform them of the infestation problem.
In such instances, they consider pest control as a favor. They will even be motivated by this false assumption that simple home remedies or illegal companies can do as good a job at much cheaper rates.
3. Lack of Enough Information About the Benefits of Pest Control
Other property owners are not aware of the value of long-term use of professional pest control. Therefore, they see it as merely unnecessary rather than an investment in their property.
Risks of Cheap Pest Control Methods
Most of the time, when landlords choose the cheap pest control methods, they fail to consider the risks, especially in the long run.
Below are some of the common risks of cheap pest control methods.
1. Worsening of Pest Infestation Menace
Usually, inexpensive control measures are partial, short-term, and sometimes ineffective, making pest infestation likely to recur shortly after treatment and become even more severe.
Notably, the cheap DIY and unlicensed treatments are usually unable to identify and address the root cause of the pest infestation and only treat what they can see. This partial control allows infestations to emerge in hidden areas and worsen if no professional intervention occurs.
On the other hand, while the reasonably priced pest control services may seem more expensive, they comprehensively address the causes of infestation and prevent its recurrence.
2. Health and Safety Risks for Tenants
By engaging in quick but cheap pest control interventions, landlords are likely to overlook the health implications of the treatment on the tenants.
Usually, the unlicensed pest control technicians may even use the wrong chemicals, rendering them useless or even hazardous.
Notably, the immediate risks of dangerous pest control fall most directly on the tenants themselves, who may experience severe health conditions as a result of frequent pest infestations and exposure to chemicals. For instance, common pests, such as cockroaches, are known to carry diseases and allergens that can trigger asthma and other respiratory problems, especially in children and the elderly.
3. Property Damage and High Cost of Repairs
Opting for less efficient pest control strategies can lead to significant property damage in the long run. For instance, termites can weaken the structure of buildings by feeding on wood. If landlords make use of such low-cost and ineffectual remedial measures, they will be forced to spend additional money on future repairs.
However, by investing in professional pest control, which may seem more expensive at first, landlords can actually save on costly repairs in the long run, making it a sound financial decision.
4. Legal and Reputational Implications
Tenants are more likely to complain and even sue, especially when they can substantiate that the landlord violated their obligation to provide a habitable living area.
Usually, Singaporean landlords are obliged by law to make their properties habitable by even addressing pest problems that affect the lifestyle of tenants.
Notably, any failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines, charges, or an obligatory order to close the building. The choice of ineffective pest control options that fail to address infestations effectively can result in legal penalties and loss of reputation as property owners. Therefore, to comply with the legal requirements and enhance the reputation, professional pest management is crucial.
The Importance of Professional Pest Management
Professional pest control is based on expertise, the use of appropriate equipment, and customized treatments for different types of infestations.
Mainly, professional pest control companies employ qualified technicians who understand the life cycles of pests. Therefore, they are capable of implementing proper controls to eliminate existing pests and prevent future infestations.
Importantly, these experts use NEA-authorized solutions and chemicals that are safe to the environment and the residents. Also, they ensure the effectiveness of their services, which is useful when landlords are asked to demonstrate they are meeting their statutory obligations.
Conclusion
While landlords and homeowners may want to cut corners on pest control, this can ultimately pose serious risks to their property and tenants.
Therefore, landlords should recognize that getting professional pest control services is not an expense to be trimmed, but rather a crucial part of being a responsible landlord in Singapore. Therefore, professional pest management is a necessity, not a luxury.
Lastly, for professional pest control services, they contact us. We’ll not only identify the current pests but also work with you to ensure proactive pest control measures are in place. Also, we’ll encourage healthy relationships with tenants who play a crucial role in preventing pest infestations by practicing good sanitation, reporting issues promptly, and maintaining their homes in good condition.
