Bugs are bad for business. No matter what industry you service, no office will improve by adding insects to the mix. Unfortunately, many commercial properties are at a higher risk of attracting bugs, and their larger infrastructures usually result in bigger infestations that can be a nightmare to get rid of.

How to Get Rid of Office Pests

Typical office-dwelling insects include ants, cockroaches, spiders, mice and rats. These bugs thrive off the food, waste, and water that can be found in office buildings, much to the horror of employees and guests alike.

The first thing you should do if you notice bugs in the office is call a local pest control company. It may not be as simple or cost-effective as running out to the store and grabbing a can of Raid, but store-bought insecticides are harmful to the environment and people in the building.

You likely need professional commercial pest control to evaluate the premises, identify the source of the bugs’ shelter, cut off access points and come up with an extermination plan that doesn’t disrupt business.

Check Where They’re Coming From

Do a tour of the parameter to determine how bugs are getting into the office. Are there any cracks, holes, or other openings outside? Could they be coming through walls or pipes? Maybe they’re actually from a neighboring office. Locating the source is crucial in commercial pest management if you want to ensure your extermination efforts last for more than a few days.

Improve Waste Management

Ensure that all food is kept in sealed containers, floors and tables are free of crumbs, and all garbage is stored and disposed of in a sanitary manner. Any residue and waste can attract insects and rodents, so keep a close eye on where they may be getting their nutriment.

Clean up spills as soon as they occur, and inform the janitorial staff that you need them to be especially mindful of any leftover waste.

Get Rid of Clutter

Ants and other insects love to hide in dark, messy places. Desks, drawers and closets should always be kept clean and organized. Food should be limited to the break room to avoid any getting onto desks, and any leftovers should be taken home or thrown down the kitchen sink disposal rather than tossed in a waste bin to attract more bugs overnight.

Calling a professional exterminator will help you get to the bottom of your office bugs without jeopardizing anyone’s health or slowing down productivity. In cases of severe infestation, you may have to relocate the office temporarily, but you can rest assured that when you return, it’ll be business as usual minus the unwelcome pests.