As a business owner, the last thing you want is for employees and staff to feel unsafe, uncomfortable, and unproductive in the workplace. Pests introduce many problems, including health risks, decreased productivity, property damage, and a negative reputation for your business. Proper pest control is vital to upholding your company’s image and maintaining a healthy work environment.

If you’re facing pest challenges at your office, it’s best not to wait. Simply contact us today for a consultation and tailored pest management solutions at +1-888-649-9919.

Below, we share tried-and-tested pest control methods for office buildings, starting with identifying common pests and signs that may be present in your home. 

Identifying Common Pests in Office Buildings

Pests are attracted to office buildings for various reasons, including easy access, food and water sources, and warm shelter. Recognizing which pests are commonly found in your area can help you take preventative measures and address infestations promptly.

Rodents

Rodents like mice and rats enter through small openings in the building’s exterior and quickly reproduce if uncontrolled. Signs of a rodent infestation include gnawing marks on food packaging or wires, droppings, and strange noises coming from walls or ceilings.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches thrive in warm and humid environments. They contaminate food sources and spread bacteria such as salmonella, staphylococcus, and streptococcus, along with other allergens that trigger allergies.

Musty odors, sightings of live roaches, discarded exoskeletons, and feces (small dark pellets resembling coffee grounds) are potential signs of a cockroach infestation.

Ants

Ants are another common pest in office buildings, especially in summer. You could have an ant infestation when you spot small piles of dirt or debris near entry points and damaged plants (if they are carpenter ants).

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are not limited to residential spaces; they can easily infest office buildings through visitors who unknowingly carry them through their belongings, like bags and clothes. These tiny insects hide in cracks and crevices during the day and come out at night to feed on human blood.

Signs of a bed bug infestation include small blood stains on sheets or furniture, rusty-colored exoskeletons, and a musty odor.

Termites

Termites are perhaps the most costly pests to address. If not caught early, they can cause major damage to a building’s structure. These pests feed on wood and can go undetected for long periods.

Signs of a termite infestation include sagging floors or ceilings, hollow-sounding wood, and mud tubes along the walls or foundation.

8 Office Pest Control Tips for a Safe Work Environment

Once the pests are identified, it’s time to take action. Here are tried-and-tested office pest control solutions for eradicating and keeping these little critters at bay:

1. Implement Cleaning Protocols

Regular cleaning is the first line of defense against pests. Implement a strict cleaning schedule for common spaces, such as break rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms, to eliminate potential food sources for pests. This includes wiping down surfaces, vacuuming carpets, and emptying trash bins.

2. Seal Entry Points

Pests infiltrate office buildings through small cracks, gaps, and openings in the exterior. To prevent their entry, regularly inspect and seal these access points using caulk, weather stripping, or mesh screens.

3. Fix Plumbing Issues

Most pests need water, so even tiny droplets and small puddles can attract them. Take these preventive measures to keep pests away in plumbing:

  • Routinely examine all pipes, drains, appliances, and drink dispensers for indications of leaks. If you detect any, address and repair them promptly.
  • Promptly clean up any spills with standing water to prevent attracting pests.
  • Ensure your property has good drainage and clear outdoor drains to prevent water from accumulating near your business.

4. Observe Proper Waste Disposal

Pets love garbage and will happily feast on any exposed waste. Ensure all trash bins are tightly sealed and garbage is promptly removed. Additionally, recycling bins should be regularly cleaned, as pests are attracted to food residue in containers.

Place garbage bins well away from the building where possible to avoid pests being drawn in.

5. Store and Dispose of Food Properly

Pests are always on the lookout for food sources, and office kitchens or break rooms can be a goldmine for them. Keep food in sealed containers and promptly dispose of leftovers or expired items. 

Keep scraps from drains and food from lying around for extended periods.

6. Use DIY Office Pest Control Methods

There are two methods of pest control for office buildings: chemical and non-chemical. 

Non-chemical methods include trapping, baiting, and exclusion techniques. Facilities management or trained staff can use these methods, and they are often more environmentally friendly.

Chemical methods involve using pesticides and should best be handled by licensed professionals to ensure the safety of employees and clients.

7. Schedule Regular Inspections

Even with preventative measures, it’s vital to schedule regular inspections for any signs of pest activity. This allows you to catch infestations early on and address them before they become a larger problem.

8. Hire Professional Pest Control for Office Buildings

While the above tips help prevent pest infestations, sometimes it’s best to leave it to the professionals. A licensed pest control company has the tools and expertise to effectively and safely eliminate pests in office buildings and provide ongoing preventative treatments to keep your workplace pest-free.

Trust the Professionals for Your Pest Control Needs

Pest infestations in office buildings can cause significant disruptions and damages if left unchecked. Pest Control Unlimited offers safe, effective pest management solutions for residential and commercial properties.

Choose from one-time or quarterly pest control services to ensure a clean, hygienic workplace. 

Call +1-888-649-9919 or complete our form for a complimentary inspection or same-day emergency visit. Our service areas include Middlesex County in Massachusetts and Hillsborough, Merrimack, and Rockingham Counties in New Hampshire.