The Importance of Commercial Pest Control

Just because we’re in the middle of a pandemic doesn’t mean the pests are taking a break.

If you’ve been paying attention to what’s going on in New Orleans and Seattle, then you know that commercial pest control services are more important than ever right now. (And if you haven’t, you can read about it here and here.)

Non-essential businesses may be temporarily closed, but as you know, hospitals are certainly not slowing down, and although restaurants may not be open for dine-in, takeout is still available. The last thing hospitals need to worry about right now is a rodent problem and no one wants their takeout food served with a side of rat. In addition to restaurants and hospitals, grocery stores remain open right now and they are required to follow strict regulations regarding pest control to maintain a clean and healthy environment for shoppers.

According to the NPMA, “There is a zero tolerance policy when it comes to the presence of pests in commercial facilities such as schools, offices, hospitals and food processing plants. Unfortunately, the potential for infestations in commercial environments is great due to increased harborage areas and the presence of food and water. Even though pests and rodents are small, their effect on your business’s bottom line can be enormous. Just one pest-related incident can lead to potential fines from state and federal inspection agencies, and a tarnished reputation among your current and prospective customers. Another concern is the fact that pests can pose serious risks to the health and safety of your employees.” We’re already dealing with one pandemic; we certainly don’t want to start another one.

Property management companies are taking extra precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19 throughout their communities, even more so since most people are confined to their homes right now. That said, with apartment complexes, residents literally live on top of each and/or in close proximity. When it comes to pest control, this can pose numerous problems. According to the NPMA, “These managed properties are often subject to bed bugs, cockroaches, flies, wasps, and rodents. Some of the pests pose health threats to tenants, while others also cause safety and structural concerns.” No one wants the spread of COVID-19, but it’s equally important that commercial pest control services continue to take place on a regular basis.

Lastly, many hotels across the country are housing doctors and nurses that can’t go back home in order to prevent their families from potentially being exposed to the coronavirus. For example, the Four Seasons Hotel New York in Manhattan is housing hospital workers that are battling this pandemic. Even under normal circumstances, pests can be damaging to a hotel’s reputation if it has an infestation of bed bugs, cockroaches or rodents. But while it’s housing our most precious resources, no one wants to see that happen.

Unfortunately, most businesses are looking for ways to cut costs right now. However, commercial pest control services should not be one of them.