Bed bugs have become a major challenge to most apartment property management companies, among other facilities. It's important to know where the risks lie and what an infestation could mean for you.

1. The Problems Caused by Bed Bugs in Apartments

2. Outbreaks There have been an increasing number of bed bug outbreaks in the United States and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. These critters have become a major challenge to most apartment property management companies, among other facilities. The problem is that bed bugs are the most difficult and expensive pest to control in apartment buildings.

3. Infestation Bed bugs stow away in luggage, furniture, clothing, moving boxes or pillows. Apartment dwellers are particularly vulnerable to bed bug hitchhikers coming in on infested furniture or other belongings. The influx may have begun with a previous resident, or it could be that a neighbor has had bed bugs and brought them over on a pant cuff. These stubborn pests can also become a problem if you bring a lot of second hand items into the apartment.

4. The Problem An infestation of bed bugs in apartments poses significant risks of health department involvement, lawsuits and public relations nightmares. By the time you realize that there is a bed bug problem on the property, bed bugs are infesting much more than beds. They are in furniture, under carpet, and in the walls. Due to their complex and stubborn nature, multiple service visits may be required to ensure that all bed bugs are properly eliminated.

5. What to Do At the first sign of an issue, many landlords and property owners may attempt to correct the situation using in-house methods. However, unknown to most, they cannot legally apply pesticides. Instead they should retain the services of a pest management professional who is especially experienced in treating bed bugs in apartments. If you are at all suspicious of a critter found recently in your home, do not hesitate to call your building manager.

6. What the Experts Say According to Michael F. Potter, Extension Entomologist at the University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture, bed bugs are highly challenging pests to control. Still, don’t panic! Although bed bugs are aggravating, they can be battled successfully with the help of a pest control company, tricks of the trade, and patience on your part.

7. About Modern Pest Modern Pest Services is a family-owned and operated pest management company serving commercial and residential clients throughout New England since 1945. Modern employs integrated pest management (IPM) practices to provide fast and effective pest control solutions. For more information call 1-800-413-8210 or visit http://www.ModernPest.com