Many people take excellent care of their main home. They stay on top of pest control issues and keep insects and vermin out. At the same time, though, these same people can completely neglect their holiday home. If you’re one of these people, then you need to take stock. What you have to understand is that pests in holiday homes are just as big a threat as they are in residential property. In fact, they’re often actually an even bigger threat. This is because holiday homes usually sit empty for long periods of time. Once you understand the seriousness of this problem, then the tips in this post will help you to combat it.
Pests in holiday homes cause a range of problems
Before we get started it’s important to mention that this doesn’t only apply to private holiday homes. If you’re someone who lets out holiday properties, then you should also be aware that pests are a threat. Guests who arrive at the property and find pests will be extremely unhappy. They may complain, and will definitely leave negative reviews online. They may even refuse to pay or ask for a refund.
Due to the fact that holiday homes are vacant during the off peak season, pests are completely free to do what they want during these periods. They can breed undisturbed, make a mess, and cause immense damage. The length of time involved between visits can give pests a chance to take hold. All types of pests in holiday homes are problematic. However, the biggest issues are caused by rodents, and insects like cockroaches and controlling ants. Plus, when it comes to holiday lets, an additional issue can include bed bugs.
What you can do to avoid this issue to start with
Firstly, you should focus on cleaning thoroughly before you leave your holiday home, or after the last guest of the season has vacated. Make sure the entire home is spotless. Vacuum and clean all floors and surfaces. Apply most of your effort to tackling the kitchen. Obviously, it’s crucial to remove all food from the property. The only food you should think of leaving behind is tinned food. Take everything else home with you.
Also try to seal up any places that pests may use to enter the building. Go through the property and look for things like cracks and holes, and close them up. Once the weather gets colder, rodents will use even the tiniest gaps to squeeze through in order to find shelter. This means that your mouse and rat control efforts must be substantial.
It’s also a great idea to find someone local who can check up on your holiday home while you’re not there. If you’re letting a property, then do a thorough inspection before the rental season begins and a new influx of guests arrive. Some property managers provide pest control services to their rental sector clients. Do not simply rent out the property and hope for the best. Pests in holiday homes can be tenacious, so take the time to air out the house, check every nook and cranny, and clean it thoroughly.