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How to Build Pest Control into Construction and Renovation Projects

by Jennifer Brumfield, Training and Technical Specialist, Western Pest Services

Did you know that if you aren’t careful, you can literally build pests into your establishment? That’s why whether you’re renovating an existing space or building a new one, it’s important to include pest management in your construction plans. Construction can cause pest issues for a variety of reasons. New construction can disturb pests from their natural habitat and force them to search for a new location that provides shelter, water, and food – all necessary for their survival. If that new location is your building, it can lead to serious problems. Renovation projects can disrupt the sanitation and maintenance programs you’ve worked so hard to put in place, leaving you vulnerable to infestation.

Not only are pests unsightly and a nuisance, but they can pose serious threats to the health and safety of your residents. Cockroaches reproduce quickly and can spread disease, contaminate food, and even cause allergies. Rats and mice can carry several diseases and may also cause structural damage within a facility. Rodents love to gnaw on whatever they can sink their teeth into – wood, paper, dry wall, wires – all available in abundant quantities during construction. Due to their poor eyesight, they frequently mistake the wiring on electrical equipment for plant roots.

Then there are termites, infamously known for causing extensive structural damage if left undetected and untreated, which happens all too frequently– hence their nick name, “the silent destroyer.”

Laying the Foundation

It’s important to start the construction process with a plan in place to help keep pests from negatively impacting your project and your property in the long-run. Before construction starts, make sure that you do the following:

The Proper Framework

Once you have a plan in place, the real work can begin. As the constructions starts and your property opens itself up to becoming more vulnerable to pests, follow these tips to stay vigilant and keep pests out:

The Finishing Touches

Once the building structure or renovation is complete and you’ve made sure to not let any pests in, there are additional measures that you can take to keep pests out. Work with your pest management professional to incorporate these tips to avoid future pest infestations:

With pest management as a top priority from start to finish during your construction or renovation process, you can protect your investment from pests and build a solid reputation with renters in the years to come.

Jennifer Brumfield is a Training and Technical Specialist and Board Certified entomologist for Western Pest Services, a New Jersey-based pest management company serving businesses and homeowners in major Northeastern markets.