One of our trusted contractors, PestX, visited our office. Director Peter Torrice gave us great information on pests, how to manage them, treatments, and things we can do to keep properties pest-free.
At Aspire, we understand the importance of maintaining a pest-free environment for our tenants. Pest issues can be frustrating and, if left untreated, can lead to significant problems for both tenants and landlords. Drawing on the insights from Peter, we’ve compiled comprehensive information on managing common pests in New Zealand rental properties.
General Tip for Tenants
If you notice a pest problem, promptly provide photos or videos to your property manager. This aids pest control professionals in assessing the issue and recommending effective solutions. The sooner an issue is reported, the easier and more cost-effective it is to resolve.
Cockroaches
New Zealand has three main types of cockroaches:
- Native Cockroaches (Gisborne Cockroaches): These are harmless insects that feed on decaying plant matter and typically reside outdoors. If they wander indoors, simply return them to the garden. They do not carry diseases and pose no risk to human health.
- German and American Cockroaches: These species are known to infest indoor areas, especially kitchens and bathrooms, and can pose health risks by contaminating food and surfaces. They thrive in warm, humid environments and multiply rapidly, making early intervention crucial.
Prevention:
- Keep kitchen areas clean, wipe down surfaces regularly, and store food in sealed containers.
- Avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight, as food residue attracts cockroaches.
- Fix leaks and eliminate sources of moisture, as cockroaches are drawn to damp environments.
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and pipes to prevent cockroaches from entering the property.
Treatment:
- A gel bait is used, its safe for pets and children but highly effective in eliminating cockroach populations.
- One or two treatments are needed, as the treatment does not affect cockroach eggs. Follow-up treatments ensure complete eradication.
- Professional pest control services can provide targeted treatments to eliminate infestations effectively.
Ants
Ant infestations are common in New Zealand, with various species entering homes for food and shelter. Effective management requires understanding the specific species and implementing targeted control strategies.
Common Ant Species in New Zealand:
- Black House Ants: These ants are brown to brownish-black in appearance and range from 3mm (worker ant) to 9mm (queen) in length. They are commonly found in gardens and homes, attracted to sweet substances.
- Coastal Brown Ants: Common in Auckland, these tiny brown ants are often found in urban areas.
- Argentine Ants: Recognized as one of the world’s top 10 invasive species, Argentine ants are aggressive and pose a serious threat to New Zealand’s biodiversity. They are light brown and known for forming extensive trails. If the ants in your property eat protein (such as pet food), they will be Argentine ants.
Prevention:
- Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly wipe down food preparation surfaces using a disinfectant cleaner to remove food residues that attract ants.
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks, crevices, and gaps around windows, doors, and utility pipes to prevent ants from entering.
- Proper Food Storage: Store leftover food in airtight containers and keep them in hard-to-reach places to deter ants.
Treatment:
- Professional Baiting: Utilizing ant baits allows worker ants to carry the poison back to the nest, effectively targeting the entire colony. The bait must target the Queen – ant bait from retailers only kills off the worker ants.
- Professional Spraying: For larger colonies or persistent infestations, specialized residual sprays administered by professionals are highly effective. These treatments can be low-toxic and safe for pets and family, with both indoor and outdoor applications.
Note: Proper identification of the ant species is crucial for effective control. Please provide photos and/or videos to your property manager.
Rats and Mice
Rodents can cause serious issues in rental properties, particularly in colder months when they seek shelter indoors. The most common way rodents enter homes is through trees overhanging the roof or gaps in the house. A rat can squeeze through a hole the size of a 50c coin, while a mouse can fit through a 10c-sized gap!
Signs of Infestation:
- Noises in ceilings or walls at night, particularly scurrying or scratching sounds.
- Droppings found near food sources, cupboards, or skirting boards.
- Chewed wires, pipes, or insulation.
Prevention:
- Keep trees and bushes trimmed away from the house to prevent rodents from accessing the roof.
- Seal gaps or holes around the property, paying close attention to entry points around pipes and vents.
- Avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
Treatment:
- Bait stations are used to control rodent populations.
- Rats can chew through pipes and wiring, leading to costly damage, so prompt treatment is essential.
Fleas
Flea infestations can be particularly challenging, as flea eggs can remain dormant for up to two years before hatching! This means that even if a property appears pest-free, fleas can suddenly appear weeks or months later, often when carpet is walked over, which hatches the eggs.
Signs of Infestation:
- Itchy bites, especially on the lower legs and ankles.
- Pets scratching excessively.
- Small, dark fleas visible on carpets, furniture, or pet bedding.
Treatment:
- Flea bombs are not effective, as they do not kill flea eggs.
- The best approach is to vacuum thoroughly using a bagged vacuum cleaner, then dispose of the vacuum bag immediately. And repeat the process.
- Wash pet bedding and soft furnishings in hot water.
- Repeat vacuuming regularly to remove newly hatched fleas.
- If the infestation persists, professional treatment may be required.
Spiders
Spiders are a common nuisance in New Zealand homes, particularly in garages, sheds, and outdoor spaces. While most species are harmless, some can deliver painful bites, and large infestations can be unsettling.
Treatment:
- External spider sprays are the most effective method for spider control, lasting 3 to 4 months.
- Internal spraying may be required for severe infestations, but in most cases, external treatment is sufficient.
- Reducing clutter in garages and sheds can help deter spiders from settling in hidden spaces.
Wasps and Bees
Wasps and bees can pose serious risks, especially if they build nests in or around a property. It’s important to assess the severity of the infestation before taking action.
Paper Wasps:
- Small paper wasp nests on fences or bushes can often be handled by tenants.
- The best way to eliminate a small nest is to spray it at night when all the wasps are on it, using a methylated spirits or turpentine solution. A couple of sprays will cause the wasps to drop off and die.
- Fly spray is not effective against wasps.
- Large nests, especially those located in gutters or difficult-to-reach areas, require professional removal.
European and German Wasps:
- These wasps build large nests in the ground or within building cavities.
- Their stings can be extremely painful and, in large numbers, dangerous.
- Professional pest control should be called in for wasp nests inside walls, in the ground, or if there is a high wasp activity around the property.
Bees:
- If bees nest inside a wall, they will eventually fill the cavity with honey, leading to leaks and a strong odour.
- Beekeepers cannot remove bees from inside buildings as they do not break structures apart to retrieve the queen.
- If a swarm of bees is spotted in a tree, it is best to leave them alone—they will usually move on naturally within a day or two.
Preventing and managing pests in rental properties is a shared responsibility between tenants and landlords. Tenants should report pest issues early, and Aspire will ensure appropriate treatments are carried out. Simple preventative measures, such as maintaining cleanliness and sealing entry points, can significantly reduce the risk of infestations.
By taking proactive steps, we can keep properties pest-free and comfortable for everyone. If you’re experiencing pest issues in your rental property, contact us for assistance and guidance on the best treatment options.Remember – sending us photos and videos is the first step!
