Bed bugs have become increasingly common in recent years, due to their growing resistance to traditional treatments and the difficulty in getting rid of them completely. They especially thrive in shared living spaces like apartments, where there is a higher population density and close contact between different units.
Without proper management, bed bug infestations can cause serious disruption, discomfort, and costs for renters. Knowing what steps to take, how to spot signs of infestation early, and how best to control these pests can help gain control of the situation. If you’re dealing with a bed bug infestation in your apartment complex, there are steps you can take to minimize their spread.
1. Look for the Signs
During the day, bed bugs will be well hidden in their nests. But there are clear signs to look for. Look for small ink-colored stains on sheets, mattresses, and fabrics. The stains will appear on the tags of mattresses, in and along seams, and under cushions. Any spots where fabric is thick, folded, and hidden are likely refuge spots for bed bugs. The stains are an all but sure sign of their presence.
2. Prevent Spreading
Once you’ve spotted the signs, you can be sure you have a bed bug problem. Other signs include painful bites which can become quite irritated. Once you have confirmed their presence, your best bet is to look for commercial pest control services. There are measures you can take to reduce bites in the meantime like thoughtfully laundering bedding. But at the end of the day, only the pros can root them out for good.
3. Prep Affected Units
Once you know you have a bed bug problem it is best to begin getting the unit ready for treatment as soon as possible. It is important to help tenants to move their furniture, spot the signs and get the apartment fully ready. All easy hiding spots for bed bugs should be stripped down so that their hiding spots are exposed.
4. Inform Your Tenants
The best bed bug prevention for apartments is tenant education. They should know what signs to look for. They should understand that bed bugs can be easily spread even after a small lapse in good prevention techniques. Your local pest removal expert may be able to supply you with fliers and other educational materials that are easy to pass around.
5. Call the Pros
Do not attempt to deal with bed bugs on your own. Incomplete or inadequate attempts to kill them are likely to cause them to spread to other areas. Treated areas must be prepped, isolated, and fully treated by a professional. Incorporating an integrated pest management plan for your apartment complex can help monitor pests and prevent further infestations.
Get Rid of Bed Bugs in Your Apartment Building
When it comes to fighting bed bugs in an apartment building, it is important to act quickly. Timely action is necessary in order to prevent the infestation from spreading throughout the building and making it harder to treat. Don’t let an infestation get out of control. Call the bed bug removal pros at ASAP Pest Control today.