Nobody likes bed bugs! But what if your Newport News rental property has an infestation? What do you do next? For starters, do not put the blame on the residents. Bed bugs are literally found almost anywhere that even 5-star hotels and airplanes have them. This is because bed bugs are not drawn to dirt, but to human beings, this means being clean does not always mean that they won’t invade.
Bed bugs are tiny insects. They are so small that they are difficult to see. They also like to hide in dark places, like behind baseboards, inside mattresses and furniture, and even in picture frames.
That being said, cleaning these items should be your first line of attack. If in case a resident has moved out, that makes things very easy. Just make sure that the property is vacuumed and cleaned thoroughly with hot water. If, however, you have current residents with a bed bug infestation, have them start by deep cleaning all the places bed bugs might hide. Consider providing your residents with a cleaning checklist for bed bugs and offer to help them find a professional company that can help get the job done correctly.
You will need to get your residents to wash all clothing, towels, and linens, and put them in the dryer on medium or hot heat for at least 20 minutes. Bag any clothing or fabric that cannot be washed in a sealed, double plastic bag for at least 3 weeks. Tell them not to keep the bag in the bedroom.
Mattresses need to be scrubbed with a stiff brush and then vacuumed thoroughly. Make sure to vacuum your property using a vacuum with a disposable bag, which you should remove and double bag when finished. You should also wash the container and hose with hot water and a mild bleach solution to ensure no bugs remain. Bed bugs can endure up to a year without feeding, so plan accordingly.
Bed bugs can also hide in any cracks in plaster or under cracking wallpaper, so it’s imperative to check for these potential hazards frequently and to get them fixed promptly. If these things aren’t already part of your existing property management plan, consider hiring a property management company with experience dealing with bed bug infestations in Newport News.
Beyond cleaning and repairs, bed bugs are most effectively eliminated by using an experienced pest control professional. Using pesticides in the bedroom can be dangerous unless done correctly. This is where an experienced property management company can be your best resource.
At Real Property Management VA Peninsula, we have the information and expertise you need to address a bed bug infestation quickly and effectively. Our property managers will work with you, your residents, and expert service providers to get your property back to bug-free in no time. For more information about our property management services, please contact us online or give us a call at 757-251-9188 today!
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