Pest infestations in apartments and multi-unit buildings are a common problem in Alberta. Whether it’s bed bugs, cockroaches, mice, or other pests, shared walls and ventilation systems make it easy for infestations to spread between units.
When a pest problem arises, the key question is: Who is responsible for handling it? The answer depends on what type of pest is involved, where it originated, and who contributed to the infestation.
Common Apartment Pests in Alberta
Pests in apartments can cause health risks, property damage, and frustration for both tenants and landlords. Some of the most common pests found in multi-unit buildings include:
Bed Bugs
- Common bed bugs spread quickly between units through walls, electrical outlets, and furniture.
- They can infest even the cleanest apartments and are often brought in unknowingly through furniture, clothing, or luggage.
- Once established, they are difficult to eliminate without professional pest control.
Cockroaches
- Alberta is home to multiple cockroach species, including German cockroaches and American cockroaches.
- Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.
- They are attracted to food scraps, clutter, and moisture, making apartments a prime target.
Rodents
- House mice and deer mice are common in Alberta apartments.
- Mice and other small rodents travel between units through walls, pipes, and vents.
- Rodents can chew through wires, insulation, and drywall, leading to property damage and fire hazards.
Ants
- Carpenter ants can weaken apartment structures by tunneling through wood.
- Pharaoh ants spread quickly and form multiple colonies, making them difficult to eliminate.
- Ants enter apartments through cracks, looking for food sources such as sugar, grease, and protein.
Spiders
- Wolf spiders and jumping spiders are commonly found in Alberta apartments.
- Spiders often appear in basements, corners, and near windows.
- While most spiders are harmless, their presence often indicates an underlying insect problem.
Who is Responsible for Pest Control in an Apartment?
Pest control in apartments is a shared responsibility between landlords and tenants. Determining who pays for pest control services depends on the cause of the infestation and the terms of the lease agreement.
When the Landlord is Responsible
- The pest problem existed before the tenant moved in.
- The infestation is caused by structural issues, such as cracks, gaps, or faulty seals allowing pests to enter.
- The pests originate from common areas such as hallways, basements, laundry rooms, or garbage disposal areas.
- Multiple units are affected, indicating a building-wide problem.
Landlords must address pest problems that affect habitability. Delaying pest control can lead to tenant complaints, legal action, or health code violations. In these cases, landlords should arrange for professional extermination services.
When the Tenant is Responsible
- The infestation is caused by poor sanitation, such as leaving food out or failing to dispose of trash properly.
- The tenant introduced pests by bringing in secondhand furniture, luggage, or belongings from an infested location.
- The tenant failed to report the issue early, allowing it to spread.
- The lease agreement states that tenants are responsible for pest control.
Tenants should report any pest problems as soon as possible to prevent the situation from worsening. Keeping a clean and clutter-free apartment can significantly reduce the risk of an infestation.
Who Pays for Pest Control?
The cost of pest control depends on who is responsible for the infestation:
- If pests are due to building maintenance issues, the landlord covers the cost.
- If pests are caused by tenant negligence, the tenant may be required to pay.
- If the cause is unclear, landlords and tenants may need to share the cost or refer to the lease agreement.
Tenant Rights and Legal Options
If a landlord refuses to address a pest problem that is affecting habitability, tenants may:
- File a formal complaint with Alberta’s Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
- Contact Alberta Health Services if the infestation poses a health risk.
- Seek legal advice to determine next steps.
Before taking action, tenants should document the problem by taking photos and keeping records of all communication with their landlord.
How to Prevent Pests in Apartments
For Landlords
- Schedule regular pest inspections to catch issues early.
- Seal cracks and gaps to prevent pests from entering.
- Educate tenants on pest prevention best practices.
For Tenants
- Store food properly in airtight containers.
- Take out the trash regularly and keep kitchen areas clean.
- Inspect furniture and luggage before bringing them into the apartment.
- Report pest issues immediately to prevent the problem from spreading.
Pests in apartments and multi-unit buildings are a serious issue, but quick action can prevent infestations from spreading. Whether you are a landlord or tenant, understanding responsibilities and acting fast is key to maintaining a pest-free home. For professional pest control services in Alberta, contact Birch Fumigators today.