Preventing pests in vacant commercial spaces

Vacant commercial real estate space is costly - not just to your bottom line, but in the structural damage your property can suffer when pests fill that empty space. Vacant Property Attracts Pests Commercial property without an occupant can quickly become infested with pests when not occupied by people every day. If property is left without regular maintenance, cracks and crevices can open. Unoccupied land surrounding a structure can harbor a large variety of pests just waiting to get in. Once your property is invaded by one pest, others are sure to follow. If the issue is not addressed, damage can grow exponentially from rodents, birds and insects. Integrated Pest Management for Empty Space An Integrated Pest Management program is important to protect the economic value of commercial structures. The approach includes three steps: 1. Identify conditions that are conducive to pest infestations; 2. Eliminate entry points, shelter, and sources of food and water; and 3. Respond with targeted treatments appropriate to any pest activity discovered. Tips for Property Managers Maintaining Empty Space * Inspect for openings: Check vacant property regularly for openings in foundations, doors, windows and eaves. Check and recheck. Wind, weather and vandalism can create new openings over time. * Inspect for pest-friendly habitats: Moisture and food attract pests; clutter gives them a good place to live. Remove debris from around foundations and clean out sources of sustenance inside and out. * Eliminate pest attractants: Potted plants, rock cover and mulch, and even bright exterior lights can attract pests. Remove plants and soil cover around foundations. Consider replacing white light bulbs with amber ones that don't attract flying insects and the spiders who eat them. * Respond quickly: If you see the slightest sign of pest activity from rats, mice, birds or insects, respond quickly. The problem will only grow worse and more expensive the longer you let it go. Invest in Professional Help It isn't always easy to spot the ways pests can enter property. Recognizing pest activity with an untrained eye isn't easy. Many people don't see a infestation until it is in full swing. And, if you do find a pest problem, you open your company up to fines and legal problems if you try to take them on yourself. New York law prohibits do-it-yourself pest control approaches on commercial property. A professional brings you a wealth of knowledge about local pest infestation patterns, as well as pest behavior and biology. They also bring you the added value of letting you know of other issues that can develop on your property including leaks, broken glass, damaged fences, and lighting problems. Protect Your Investment Finding new tenants quickly is the goal of any property manager with empty space on hand. Damage caused by pests can create costly delays - or worse - scare off a potential lease signer. Make pest management a core part of your vacant property maintenance plan and protect the value of your investment. Arthur Katz is CEO of Knockout Pest Control, Uniondale, N.Y.