Preventing Ants, Roaches and other Pests
Renter Answers

Keeping pests, such as ants and roaches, out of your rental unit requires teamwork between you and your property manager. Many property managers contract with a professional pest control service to apply pesticides to the exterior of your rental unit.
           
However, when you discover these pests inside your unit, try to determine the cause of the problem before contacting your property manager. You unwittingly may be offering a banquet to hundreds of little free-loaders. If you caused the problem, you may be charged for any additional costs of pest control.
           
The most common cause of a pest infestation is food left out on counters, improperly stored in cupboards, or placed in open trash cans for too long. Fortunately, the solutions are simple. Store leftovers promptly. Food placed in cupboards, especially sugar and other sweets, should be in airtight containers. Throw out trash daily, preferably at the end of the day. Use a trash container with a lid, but avoid putting it inside a dark cabinet, such as under the sink. 
          
In addition, avoid leaving wet or dry pet food dishes on the floor all day and night because they attract ants. To discourage cockroaches, put wet garbage down the garbage disposal rather than in an open trash container. Refrain from storing stacks of grocery bags or newspapers that attract silverfish.
           
Once inside, pests migrate quickly. In apartment communities, they spread from one unit to another. By keeping your apartment free of pests, you are doing your neighbor a favor, too.