Pest and Vermin

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This article applies to regular and Short Stay tenants.

How to prevent (and deal with) vermin problems? 

Preventing pests starts with keeping your home clean and tidy. Here are some tips:

  • Hygiene: clean regularly.
  • Food Storage: store food in well-sealed containers.
  • Waste Management: keep garbage bins closed and empty them regularly. Do not leave trash bags lying around.
  • Don’t feed animals: avoid throwing bread crumbs outside or feeding birds from your balcony or in the garden.

Who is responsible for pest or vermin control? 

Common area
Do you see vermin in a common area? As a tenant, you are responsible for taking the first steps to address the issue. However, if you suspect an infestation, contact SSH or submit a maintenance request. When reporting the issue, include photos and a clear description of the problem. Be specific about the location and explain why you believe it is an infestation. The Property Manager/and or caretaker will assess the situation and determine the severity of the problem.

In your living space
If you have vermin/pest in your own living space, such as silverfish, mice, or bedbugs, you are responsible for addressing the problem. Read on to find out what you can do. For severe issues, such as rats, cockroaches, or wasps, you can contact SSH. We will assess the severity of the issue before taking further action.

Bed bugs: how to prevent them 

Preventing bed bugs is always better than treating them. These insects spread quickly, are difficult to eliminate, and cause a lot of inconvenience. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of bedbugs:

  • Check accommodation reviews for reports of bedbugs before booking a vacation.
  • Inspect beds in your accommodation for small dark brown or red spots (bedbug droppings).
  • Keep your suitcase away from the bed to prevent bedbugs from traveling with you.
  • After returning home, check your luggage, especially if you have been in high-risk areas such as hostels in popular backpacking destinations.
  • Always inspect second-hand clothing and furniture for signs of bedbugs.

Bed bugs: I have them

If you suspect of having bed bugs, report this to SSH immediately. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of spreading and the higher the costs. Treating a large infestation can cost thousands of euros if leaving them untreated for too long. Always report suspected bedbugs right away. SSH covers the cost of the first inspection and setting up a trap. Follow-up treatments are at your own expense.

You can recognize bedbugs by:

  • Bedbugs: 4.5 – 9 mm in size, ranging from transparent to dark red
  • Blood spots: Dark brown or red stains on sheets, baseboards, picture frames, or electrical outlets.
  • Sheddings: Small dark flakes near their hiding spots..
  • Bites: Bedbug bites cause itchy bumps, often appearing in a row.


Do you suspect bed bugs? Follow the following steps:

  1. Report the problem to SSH immediately.
    • Provide evidence of why you suspect bedbugs, such as photos of bites on your body, possible droppings, or the bedbugs themselves.
    • SSH will assess the information and may schedule an inspection of your living space.
    • If bedbugs are suspected, SSH will hire a pest control company for an initial inspection, which SSH will cover.
  2. Do not move anything before treatment to prevent spreading. Follow SSH and/or pest control instructions carefully.
  3. If further action is needed, the pest control service will carry out the treatment. Note: You are responsible for the treatment costs. Possible treatments include:
    • Steam and chemical treatment of the room
    • Chemical cleaning of clothing, curtains, mattresses, and beds
  4. Follow these guidelines after treatment:
    • Do not vacuum or clean with wet cloths for at least a week.
    • Wash bedding immediately at 60°C (140°F) or higher. Items that cannot be washed should be placed in the freezer for at least 72 hours.
    • Follow any additional instructions from SSH and/or the pest control service to eliminate the bedbugs effectively.
  5. Monitor the situation and keep the SSH and pest control service informed about the developments.
  6. Repeat treatments may be necessary.

Mice

If there is no infestation, you are responsible for preventing and dealing with mice yourself. You can follow the steps below to get rid of mice. These steps also help prevent them from appearing in the first place:

  • Seal cracks and gaps. Mice can squeeze through very small holes, even as narrow as a pencil.
  • Store food in sealed containers. This also applies to pet food. Avoid leaving food scraps or dirty dishes on the counter.
  • Dispose of waste immediately in closed trash bins.
  • Keep your room tidy. Mice can use clutter as hiding spots or nesting material.

If there is an infestation, contact SSH. Before taking action, we will first check if you have already followed the steps above. Additionally, please provide the following information when reporting the issue:

  • Have any items been gnawed on? 
  • Do you see droppings? If so, what do they look like?
  • Do you smell mice?
  • Have you seen any mice?
  • Can you hear them?
  • Where have you seen the mice?
  • Attach any photos or videos that confirm the presence of mice, such as droppings or gnawed food packaging.

Silverfish 

Silverfish are commonly found in damp and warm areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Since they feed on invisible mold, proper ventilation is essential. SSH does not provide professional pest control for silverfish. Follow these steps to get rid of them:

  • Ventilation: ensure proper air circulation. Silverfish do not thrive in low temperatures and low humidity. You can also use a moisture absorber.
  • Seal cracks and gaps: a silverfish likes to hide under baseboards and in small openings, so seal these areas well.
  • Spray: you can buy special silverfish spray at the store. Follow the instructions regarding ventilation and repeat the treatment if necessary.

Firebrats

Unlike silverfish, firebrats prefer warm and dry environments with lots of paper, such as bookshelves, wallpapered areas, or spaces near heating systems. SSH does not provide professional pest control for firebrats. Follow these steps to deal with them:

  • Ventilation: good airflow can help keep firebrats under control, especially in well-insulated new buildings.
  • Paper Storage: avoid storing paper, boxes, or books in warm areas. For example, books and boxes near heaters.
  • Spray: you can buy firebrat spray at the store. Follow the instructions regarding ventilation and repeat the treatment if necessary.