The importance of pest control

There are a number of valid reasons why having pest control management systems in place is so critical. By far, the importance of pest control is linked to pests being carriers of diseases. Pest control can be presumed the means of taking care of pests in a property you safeguard for its users or purpose. By preventing pests in commercial premises, you do protect the health and safety not only of their customers but also of the staff. The number and frequency of pest control inspections will also vary depending on the risk assessment of the business and premises.

What is pest control?

By definition, pest control is the discipline exploring means to deal with pests and minimise their impact on a variety of environments and human activities. It starts by defining what can be considered pests and regulates what needs to be done about them and how. It is supported by the field of biology and the pest control industry in the search for novel means and techniques of eradication. The relevance of pesticides has been centered mainly on the advancements of synthetic pyrethroids that mimic the chemical structure of their natural counterparts. But much progress has been allowed because of microencapsulation techniques and the addition of synergic compounds.

There are also a number of non-governmental bodies that look into best practices and promote the best code of practice that pest control technicians should follow. In the past few decades, this focus has brought the profession of pest control technician to the status of a highly skilled operative. Professional grade pest control products are also highly regulated, and their purchase is restricted to companies and individuals that possess the right level of accreditation.

Similarly, the public is more aware than ever of what pest control is and of its importance. There is a large range of commercial DIY pest control products that are available from the high street, but their efficacy may be limited by a greater rate of dilutions or less palatable ingredients.

This pest control definition is not limited to urban environments but can also be extended to agriculture. There is a drive to make environmentally friendly products that will not contaminate the ground and subterranean water bodies. But this research is also driven by the need to combat resistance. A number of biological agents have already been introduced successfully as means to control moths by targeting the larvae using bacteria.

This is not to be confused with organic pest control products that have been serving humanity for most of our history. Organic pest control relies mostly on extracting active ingredients from plants or aromatic compounds that are known to have a positive effect on pests. We rely heavily upon a product based on essential oil that dissolves the cuticle of insects’ exoskeletons and eggs’ membrane to treat moth infestations when the use of synthetic pyrethroids is not allowed.

The pest control meaning that we discussed above has now led to its recognised importance and its place in the regulatory system of the UK.

Putting in place an efficient pest control management system

Failure to implement appropriate pest control measures could allow a mild infestation to become a significant infestation with all the consequences that this carries. The health and psychological impact on people can be tremendous and would most likely drive anyone to move out. For commercial premises, pests sighting can be a turn-off for customers and push the business owner into disrepute.

Pest control to protect your investment

A third strong argument is that pests will undermine the soundness of any building and depreciate it in the long run. An immediate consequence of having rodents would be them gnawing through electric wires, woodwork, and other features. Other pests will leave behind signs that the property was once heavily infested. We can consider the potential repair and re-decorating costs that could derive from pest infestations. Otherwise, this in effect could constitute a motive to turn down a rental agreement or to bring down an asking purchase price.

Finally, suffering from a pest infestation would be like having a sword hanging over your head. Soon or later, the owner will face a point where he has no other choice but to face the music. It could be through a legal challenge, or because of a claim for compensation. The people that have the most to lose would be food businesses that are closely monitored by Environmental Health Officers. They would not only end up with some penalties, but they may be forcibly closed to the public for a significant amount of time.

The importance of pest control

What is the purpose of pest control, if not to protect people and properties?

• Protect your health and wellbeing.
• Protect your peace of mind.
• Protect your premises and investment.
• Respect laws and regulations.
• Protect your income.
• Protect the tenants

Pest control and eradication

Not doing everything you can to prevent pests would be a false economy. The eradication of the pest population may have to involve more than a neighbour and a concerted approach. The integrated pest management importance is even more pronounced for pests such as rats, which are often linked to communal drains and grounds. Removing key elements from the immediate environment may limit the growth capability of the pest population and offer the best prospects for long-term results.

More than ever, landlords and property managers recognise the importance of pest control and invest accordingly. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need advice on pest control and eradication methods for any pests.