Pest problems in rental properties can cause disputes between landlords and tenants. The responsibility for pest removal depends on the type of pest, the cause of the infestation, and the terms of the lease agreement.
Responsibility for Pests in Rented Property
General Pest Control Responsibilities in Rentals
1. Landlord’s Responsibilities
- Provide a pest-free property at the start of a tenancy.
- Maintain the building’s structure to prevent pest entry (e.g., sealing holes, fixing leaks).
- Arrange professional pest control if the infestation is due to property defects or external factors.
2. Tenant’s Responsibilities
- Keep the property clean and hygienic to prevent pests.
- Manage infestations caused by poor housekeeping (e.g., food scraps attracting cockroaches or rodents).
- Arrange a final pest treatment when vacating if required by the lease.
Who Pays for Different Pest Issues?
1. Insect Infestations (Cockroaches, Ants, Silverfish, Fleas, Bed Bugs)
- Tenant’s Responsibility:
- If the infestation occurs after moving in due to hygiene issues.
- End-of-lease pest treatments for properties that allowed pets.
- Landlord’s Responsibility:
- If the infestation was present before the tenant moved in.
- When a building defect (e.g., leaking pipes attracting cockroaches) contributes to the infestation.
2. Rodent Infestations (Rats and Mice)
- Tenant’s Responsibility:
- If rodents are attracted by poor food storage or excess waste.
- If pets (e.g., chickens, aviaries, or guinea pigs) contribute to the issue.
- Landlord’s Responsibility:
- If the property is near a creek, bushland, or drainage area with high rodent activity.
- If the building structure allows rodent access (e.g., gaps in walls, unsealed vents).
- In strata buildings, the body corporate often covers rodent treatments in common areas.
3. Possum Removal
- Always the Landlord’s Responsibility:
- Possums are protected wildlife, and professional removal involves sealing entry points.
- Because roof repairs or modifications are required, only the owner can authorize the work.
Special Cases in Pest Control Responsibility
1. Properties in Pest-Prone Areas
- Homes near waterways, dense vegetation, or poorly maintained neighboring properties may experience recurring pest issues.
- The landlord should take preventative measures if infestations are ongoing.
2. Strata-Titled Properties and Body Corporate Responsibility
- In apartment buildings, rodent and insect treatments should be applied to common areas, including roof spaces and shared walls.
- Some body corporates fund whole-building pest treatments, while others leave it to individual unit owners.
3. What If There’s a Dispute?
- If the landlord refuses pest treatment, tenants may:
- Request an inspection from Queensland Health for hygiene-related infestations.
- Negotiate pest control costs with the property manager.
- Arrange pest control at their own expense, if necessary, to resolve the issue.
Why Choose Peter the Possum & Bird Man for Rental Property Pest Control?
1. Experienced in Rental Pest Issues
- We work with tenants, landlords, and property managers to resolve pest infestations fairly.
2. Legal and Humane Possum Removal
- We handle possum-proofing and eviction in compliance with wildlife protection laws.
3. Comprehensive Pest Solutions
- We offer general pest control, rodent treatments, and entry point sealing to prevent future infestations.
Final Thoughts on Pest Control in Rental Properties
Responsibility for pest control in rental homes depends on the cause of the infestation. While tenants must maintain cleanliness, landlords are responsible for pest issues caused by structural faults or environmental factors.
Need pest control support for your rental property? Whether you’re a tenant dealing with cockroaches or a landlord needing possum-proofing, Peter the Possum & Bird Man offers fast, fair, and fully compliant pest solutions across Brisbane.
Contact us today to get expert advice and professional pest control tailored to your rental needs.
