Who Pays for Pest Control in your Apartment? Landlord or Tenant?

As a tenant, seeing cockroaches in your apartment can be incredibly stressful. It can also be frustrating for landlords hoping to keep their properties pest-free. Cockroaches are often a source of tension between landlords and tenants because neither party may feel responsible, but the cockroaches must go. These are hazardous, unsightly pests that will only get worse with time. So, who pays? In Ontario, it is the landlord’s responsibility to pay for pest control. If you are a landlord, or if you are a tenant who is concerned about an infestation at home, reach out to cockroach exterminators in Toronto.

The Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB) states that pest control is a landlord’s responsibility. Rental properties are expected to meet standards of health, safety, and maintenance, which includes the removal of pests. Landlords must take immediate action upon hearing of an infestation on the property. If you are renting an apartment that has cockroaches, you should notify your landlord right away so that he or she can hire an exterminator. Your landlord may not be aware of the problem. Describe to them what you have been seeing and ask for help. If you are a landlord, communicate with your tenants so you can better understand the situation.

Once a landlord has been notified of a pest issue, he or she should get professional help. Hiring an exterminator is the most reliable way to get rid of cockroaches. Exterminators have the training, equipment, and experience necessary to eliminate cockroaches effectively. Tenants should then be notified at least 24 hours before the professional’s arrival. The LTB requires that landlords give their tenants a written 24-hour notice before anyone enters the unit. In a multi-residential building, such as a high-rise, neighbouring units should also be notified. In addition to the notice, tenants should be given instructions on how to prepare for the treatment.

Landlords have to pay for pest control, but tenants are still responsible for the general upkeep of their units. Tenants should do whatever they can to help with the extermination. If you are renting an apartment, keep the unit clean and tidy. Reduce clutter and sweep or vacuum regularly. Avoid leaving any food out overnight and be sure to take out the garbage before the end of the day. Store food in tightly sealed containers. This will reduce the amount of food there is available to the cockroaches, forcing them to consume the pesticides the technician applied. If you have other concerns, such as a leaky faucet, contact your landlord.

Pest problems can be a serious burden to those involved, but they can be solved with professional intervention. Cockroaches are especially stubborn pests – they will not go away on their own. If you are a tenant who has been living with cockroaches, speak with your landlord immediately so you can reach an understanding. Regular maintenance and clear communication between landlord and tenant are the keys to a successful extermination. For more information on cockroach removal, visit theexterminators.ca.