Homeowner associations (or HOAs, as they’re more commonly known) manage neighborhoods, laying down rules and providing certain services to members. Some HOAs maintain common areas, such as parks, or enforce housing guidelines. When it comes to HOA pest control, there can often be many questions about what services an HOA provides homeowners and when the responsibility lies with the organization, not the individual. Keep reading to discover everything you wanted to know—and everything you didn’t know you needed to know—about HOA pest control.
Common HOA Pest Control Problems
When it comes to the different types of pests that can plague both HOAs and homeowners alike, it all depends upon the situation. However, pests themselves are not the only problem HOAs have to face when it comes to dealing with pest control. In actuality, one of the most challenging aspects of handling pest infections in an HOA is knowing who has to handle it—the HOA or the homeowner.
In fact, the most common question homeowners have about HOA pest control is who’s responsible. When it comes down to money, it’s always best to have clear expectations set on who’s paying and who isn’t—especially in pest control situations affecting homeowner associations.
However, there are no exact guidelines concerning who pays for pest control. There are some general standards that HOA’s follow, such as being responsible for maintaining common areas and public spaces. If the pest issue affects only one household and was not spread from a common area, then the responsibility lies with the homeowner. However, if it can be documented that the infestation spread from common areas that HOAs are supposed to maintain, then generally the HOA will have to provide pest control services. Common areas can include parks, pool areas, clubhouses, courts, and more.
It’s best to check with your HOA regarding their policies on HOA pest control, as it can differ by organization. If the homeowner has to organize pest control services on their own, verify if your HOA organization offers residence discounts with their preferred pest control company. That can help save money and also ensure quality service.
When it comes to HOA pest control, the most effective method is preventative care. By partnering with a pest control specialist to complete routine pest control services, HOAs can avoid the bulk of troublesome pest issues. Lately, more and more pest companies—and in turn, HOAs—have been recognizing the valuable benefit that IPM methods can have on pest problems.
In short, IPM (or integrated pest management) prioritizes safe methods of pest control and decreases the use of pesticides. Many of the most effective techniques are preventative, such as removing overgrown foliage or promptly getting rid of the garbage from common areas. By reducing the factors that attract pests, pest infestations can be stopped before they’ve even started. Other IPM methods include cleaning up food scraps, such as after a picnic or event in a common area, and sealing entry holes that let pests inside.
When it comes down to it, all HOA pest control methods should be moving away from pesticide usage, which can harm both the surroundings and residents. If an HOA does decide to use pesticide spray as a form of pest control, a notice must be posted for residents to see. Only use licensed pesticide professionals to minimize the risk of complaints or claims by homeowners.
For homeowners inside an HOA, the most common type of pest infestations differ based upon the type of housing. When it comes to condo or townhouse style of housing, rats and roaches are the top offenders. That’s because these infestations can quickly spread between homes. For single-family homes with more space between residences, rats in the walls and gophers are the most common issue. Generally, these are pest issues that the homeowner must take care of themselves unless otherwise specified by the HOA regulations. If you’re ever uncertain, double-check with the HOA pest control rules set by your organization.
Conclusion
HOA pest control can be highly effective in ensuring that residents enjoy pest-free homes and clean, healthy common areas. Remember that the best method of HOA pest control is through the preventative care that IPM methods can provide. Be sure to partner with a pest control company that can professionally service both HOAs and individual homes throughout the organization.