Retail stores carry a variety of merchandise, from food to clothing. The inventory is only one reason pests invade commercial space. While there are many potential reasons insects, rodents, and other creatures may infiltrate a retail location, there is only one way to get rid of the problem: commercial pest control in Haldimand-Norfolk.

Commercial pest control services use the correct tools and professionals to secure commercial properties. Retail spaces can remain pest-free and consumer-friendly with four-season pest control and proper prevention strategies.

5 Reasons Pest Invade Retail Spaces

Pests do not like people, so entering or living in a busy retail establishment is not their preferred environment. Still, as with any living thing, pests have particular necessities, and if a commercial space can satisfy one or more of their needs, they may be motivated to act out of character.

Food, water, and shelter are the primary driving forces for any living thing, including humans. As a retail owner, you must reduce access to the three needs to reduce infestation risks. However, to minimize risks, you must first recognize what those risks are.

1. Food

Food is a primary driver for various pests, including mice and ants. Keep in mind rodents and insects do not require a significant amount of food to survive and thrive. A few crumbs left on the carpet after lunch or an open bag of potato chips in the trash are more than enough to sustain a pest.

If you keep food on the premises, make sure to store it correctly. After meals with the staff, vacuum, sweep, and mop. Also, wipe down countertops and wash any dishes. Finally, remove trash from the building at the end of each workday.

2. Poor Cleaning Habits

Poor cleaning habits harken back to the previous item. If you or your staff do not vacuum, mop, sweep, and wipe down counters, the floor of your establishment will collect food scraps for bugs, rodents, and other pests.

As a business and property owner, adhere to a rigorous cleaning schedule. The cleaner your property, the less likely it is to experience an infestation.

3. Poor Landscaping

Believe it or not, protecting the inside of your business against pests starts on the outside. Landscaping is essential to keeping bugs and other pests away from vulnerable entries. Overgrown bushes and grass encourage insects and rodents to seek shelter on your property. If any of that overgrowth is close to the building, it encourages pests to explore the foundation, siding, doors, and windows. If your business is especially vulnerable to pests, consider hiring a professional service to safeguard against infestations.

4. Vulnerable Entry Points

Many business owners get caught up in day-to-day operations that they may neglect necessary maintenance. Essential maintenance tasks include maintaining screens, seals, gutters, downspouts, etc.

Torn screens provide easy access to a building, especially during warmer months. Clogged gutters may not provide immediate access, but they do encourage insects to explore. Also, given enough time, blocked gutters can damage a roofline, creating access points.

To protect a building, business or property owners must adopt vigilance with maintenance routines. They must make repairs as soon as they notice them.

5. Routine Packages and Deliveries

Sometimes, a retail store cannot help but give access to pests. The constant traffic flow through the building provides plenty of opportunities for insects and small animals to enter.

To help control pest populations, have designated pickup and delivery zones. If possible, have a double entry to reduce the risk of pests travelling into the building.

Commercial Pest and Wasp Removal

Pests can be a serious problem in retail stores, but luckily, there are ways to prevent an infestation. Hiring Truly Nolen for commercial pest control services can help give you peace of mind knowing that all potential pest issues have been addressed. If you have noticed signs you may be dealing with an infestation in your business, contact our team today to schedule an inspection.