Autumn Has Come to Northland: Do You Like the Cold? Neither Do Cockroaches...

As the days cool down in Northland, we’re not the only ones heading indoors to stay warm. Cockroaches, ants, flies - and yes, even rats and mice - are on the move, and your home might be looking like a five-star resort to them.

These unwelcome guests don’t just bring discomfort - they cause mess, potential health risks, and expensive damage. That’s why at Propertyscouts Whangarei, pest management is built into how we look after rental properties - for the benefit of both landlords and tenants.

How We Manage Pests at Propertyscouts

We work proactively to prevent infestations before they turn into major dramas. Here's how:

• Educated tenants: Prevention is key. We provide tips and information to help tenants keep pests at bay.

• Teamwork: Good communication between owners and tenants helps catch small problems early. (Owners might provide bait; tenants can help set it out.)

• Routine inspections: Our regular inspections include checking for pest activity and possible entry points.

• First 30 days: Landlords are responsible for ensuring the property is vermin-free for the first 30 days of a new tenancy. If pests appear, tenants simply need to notify us in writing and we’ll handle it.

• Shared responsibility: After the first 30 days, tenants are expected to keep the property clean and pest-resistant. If external factors cause an issue, we work with both parties to find a fair solution.

Tips for Tenants: Keeping Pests Out

Here’s how you can help:

• Clean regularly to avoid attracting pests.

• Watch for early signs like droppings, chewed packaging, or scratching noises.

• Act quickly within the first month - contact your Property Manager for advice.

• Seal food and rubbish tightly.

After the first 30 days of your tenancy, managing pests falls under your responsibility (as long as the cause is within your control). However, if pests are coming from outside sources - like a nearby building site - let us know. The landlord may assist with professional pest control if needed.

Need fumigation? You’re welcome to arrange a professional pest control provider like Enviro Pest or Northpest, or grab traps and bait from your local supermarket.

Important Tip:
If you’re using rat poison, rats will become extremely thirsty. Place a small water container under key water access points inside (under sinks, dishwashers, washing machines) to avoid them damaging pipes in search of water.

Advice for Landlords: Prevention Saves You Money

Rodents and pests can cause major damage - and rodent damage is no longer covered by insurance!

Common (uninsured) damage includes:

• Chewed wiring (requiring wall removal)

• Destroyed insulation

• Damaged pipes and cabinetry

• Ruined appliances

• Structural damage

Prevention is your best protection.
At Propertyscouts Whangarei, we help by:

• Educating tenants and suppliers about prevention

• Inspecting properties for gaps and early signs of pests

• Acting quickly if issues are reported

Landlords who act early not only avoid costly repairs but also maintain stronger relationships with tenants.

Stay Cozy (and Critter-Free) This Autumn

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet cuppa or heading away on a trip, don’t let pests move in while you’re not looking.

Get in touch with our team for advice and support.

— The Propertyscouts Whangarei Team
Your rental investment, our guaranteed commitment.