Yes, absolutely. If you’re dealing with unwelcome critters in your rented space, you’re well within your rights to bring in a licensed team. Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act doesn’t prevent tenants from hiring licensed specialists–though it’s usually best to let your property manager know first. Most leases actually require that step. Skipping it might create a headache you didn’t mean to invite.
If your landlord isn’t responding, or is slow to act, that doesn’t mean you have to wait in silence. Especially if the situation’s getting worse. Rodents, insects, or other intruders can cause damage–sometimes fast. And health concerns aren’t out of the question either, depending on the type and extent of the problem. Some renters choose to front the cost and sort out reimbursement later. It’s not ideal, but if you’ve documented the situation and notified the owner in writing, it’s one option.
Not all companies will work directly with tenants though. That’s something to ask right away when booking. Some prefer to coordinate through building management, especially in multi-unit complexes. It helps avoid repeat visits or confusion about access. So, it’s worth double-checking the company’s policy during that first conversation. Just to avoid surprises.
One more thing–tenants aren’t always responsible for paying. If the cause isn’t something you did (like leaving food out or not taking out the trash), the landlord usually has to handle the bill. But that’s not black and white. If there’s any grey area, a written inspection report from the technician can help clear things up later.
I had a friend in Sunnyside last year who didn’t say anything for weeks, hoping it’d go away. It didn’t. Turns out, a neighbour’s kitchen was the source, and several suites were affected. She wished she’d acted sooner. Point is, waiting rarely helps. Quiet problems don’t tend to stay that way.
Who to Contact When You’re Dealing With an Infestation
If you’re seeing more than just the odd bug or rodent, it’s time to get help. Don’t wait–things usually don’t improve on their own. Start by checking if your building management handles these situations. Some leases include it, some don’t. If they won’t take care of it, or if their response feels slow, it’s completely fine to bring someone in yourself.
Look for licensed specialists who work locally. Reviews matter–especially ones mentioning multi-unit buildings or specific species. It’s also smart to check if they offer discreet service, especially if you’re in a high-rise and prefer not to broadcast what’s going on.
Preparing Your Unit
Before anyone arrives, make sure the place is reasonably tidy. Clear baseboards, move furniture where you can, and remove food items from low cupboards if you suspect ants or similar. Some providers give a prep sheet–follow it closely. It might seem like a hassle, but skipping a step could mean needing a second visit. And no one wants that.
Lastly, expect to leave your home for a few hours, depending on the treatment used. Ask upfront how long you’ll need to be out and what to do afterward. Re-entering too soon isn’t just unpleasant–it can be unsafe.
What to Do If You’re Not the Property Owner
Tenants have the right to request intervention when unwanted intruders show up. But there’s a catch–you’ll need to loop in whoever manages the building. If it’s a private landlord, send a written request with details: what you’ve seen, when it started, and any steps you’ve already tried. Most provinces require the owner to deal with infestations, and Alberta’s no different.
Let’s say the issue isn’t addressed after reasonable notice (usually 3 to 5 business days). You could contact Alberta Health Services to file a complaint. Their inspectors can step in and issue an order if your unit’s no longer considered safe or sanitary. But try not to skip talking to your landlord first. Jumping straight to a formal complaint might delay things unnecessarily.
If your building is managed by a company, things may move faster. They typically have contracts with specialists and can schedule treatment without much back-and-forth. Make sure you get confirmation in writing–email is fine. That way, you have proof if delays drag on or nothing gets done.
Bringing in your own help? Tricky. You’re not legally allowed to hire outside specialists without permission. Doing so could even get you stuck with the bill, especially if access to other units is needed. Some services also won’t accept jobs from renters unless the property owner signs off. Fair enough–liability is a real concern.
| Step | Details |
| 1. Document | Take photos, note dates, and describe what you’ve seen. |
| 2. Notify | Email or write your landlord or property manager. Keep records. |
| 3. Wait | Give 3–5 business days for action unless it’s severe. |
| 4. Escalate | Contact Alberta Health Services if there’s no response. |
| 5. Follow up | Confirm treatment date and who’s responsible for prep. |
So yes, you’re allowed to ask for help–but doing it right makes all the difference. Just don’t act alone unless you’re sure it won’t cause more issues than it solves.
Tenant Rights and Action Steps
Yes, you’re allowed to bring in a licensed extermination service yourself–but there’s a catch. If you’re renting, it usually depends on what’s written in your lease. In most cases, it’s actually your landlord’s job to deal with insects or rodents. You’re not obligated to just live with it.
If you’ve already told your landlord and nothing’s happened–say, it’s been more than a few days–it’s reasonable to take initiative. That said, you’ll want to document everything. Photos, messages, even time-stamped notes of when you noticed the issue. That kind of record can help if the issue ends up involving the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
Here’s a key point: if you go ahead and hire someone without written permission, your landlord could technically argue that you didn’t follow procedure. So before booking anything, give them one last written notice. Email is fine. Be clear: you’ve noticed a recurring issue, you’ve reported it, and you plan to contact a certified removal technician if they don’t respond within, say, 48 hours.
And no, you don’t need to wait until it’s an infestation. A single mouse or a few bugs around baseboards are enough to raise concern, especially in shared buildings. You have the right to a reasonably clean and safe living space. That’s not just a nice idea–it’s legally supported under Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act.
Bottom line? Keep your communication firm but polite. And if you end up paying out-of-pocket, save the invoice–you might be able to claim reimbursement later.
Can I Request Pest Services for My Apartment in Calgary?
Yes, you absolutely should–especially if you’ve noticed droppings, strange sounds at night, or tiny bite marks on pantry items. Those aren’t just random signs; they usually mean there’s already activity inside your unit.
In most residential leases here, landlords are legally responsible for arranging and paying for treatment in multi-unit buildings, especially when the issue affects more than one suite. That said, not every landlord acts right away. If they delay or ignore it, don’t wait too long. Document everything: photos, dates, communication attempts. It’s worth contacting Alberta Health Services if nothing’s done within a reasonable time.
Now, if you’re in a condo or privately owned unit, things get a bit murkier. You might be on the hook yourself–depends on what your agreement says. Either way, professionals are allowed to visit individual residences, even within large buildings, and discreet service is common. Neighbours won’t necessarily know someone’s been in and out unless you’re chatting with them directly.
What to Expect
Once you’ve arranged a visit, you’ll likely get prep instructions–laundry, clearing cupboards, sealing food, that kind of thing. It’s annoying, but skipping prep usually means repeat visits. Treatment types vary depending on the problem. You might be out of your unit for a few hours or even overnight.
Don’t assume one visit solves it. Most situations need follow-ups, especially in dense buildings where issues tend to reappear. It’s not just about what’s in your suite, but also what’s happening next door–or above you. That part? Out of your hands. But addressing your space quickly still helps contain the spread.
Who’s Actually Responsible for Infestations in a Rental Unit?
Start with the lease. If there’s any mention of maintenance obligations or specific clauses about insects or rodents, that’s your first clue. Most rental agreements place the responsibility on the landlord when it comes to structural issues or problems caused by building-wide neglect–like mice sneaking in through cracks in the foundation. But if it’s something that may be linked to cleanliness or storage habits inside the unit, the tenant might be on the hook. It’s a bit of a grey area sometimes.
If you’re unsure, document the issue thoroughly–photos, dates, where it started. Then notify the property manager or owner in writing, preferably with as much detail as you can. Some might act fast. Others… not so much. Either way, it’s best to let them know early and give them a reasonable window to respond.
Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act doesn’t get into fine detail here, but it does outline general expectations. Owners have to provide a safe, habitable living space. That’s not just about running water and heating–it includes preventing things that can impact health, like infestations. Still, if nothing happens after a few days, it may be worth bringing someone in yourself and sorting the bill out later.
Keep receipts. If it ends up in dispute, you’ll want proof that you acted reasonably and didn’t just ignore the problem. And honestly, waiting too long only makes things worse. It’s usually better to deal with it quickly, even if you’re not 100% sure who’s supposed to.
Is It Allowed Without Property Manager Approval?
Yes, but there’s a catch. If you’re renting, you don’t need the landlord’s permission to deal with an infestation inside your unit. The Residential Tenancies Act in Alberta allows tenants to address health hazards directly–infestation qualifies. However, it’s smart to give written notice first. That creates a paper trail, in case things get complicated later.
Still, there’s a limit. If the issue is spreading to neighbouring suites, or you think the source isn’t even in your unit, then acting alone might not help. It turns into a building-wide concern. That’s when the landlord steps in–by law, they’re responsible for keeping the building livable. So, document everything. Take photos. Keep receipts.
Tenants who’ve gone ahead on their own have had mixed results. One neighbour got reimbursed after showing receipts and copies of unanswered emails to their property manager. Another didn’t, mostly because they skipped the notice step. So, don’t skip it–even a quick email is better than nothing.
| Action | Recommended? | Why |
| Hire directly without notice | No | May not get reimbursed; risks conflict with landlord |
| Send written notice first | Yes | Creates a record; protects your rights |
| Wait for landlord’s response | Depends | Reasonable if the problem isn’t urgent |
Some management companies respond within hours. Others… well, let’s just say you might be waiting a while. If that happens, and things are getting worse, it’s fair to take matters into your own hands. Just document everything. It’s not about blame–it’s about covering yourself if things escalate.
What Types of Treatments Are Offered for Rental Units in Calgary?
Start with a full interior inspection. No spray, no traps–just a walkthrough to identify entry points, droppings, or signs of activity. From there, licensed technicians might suggest gel baits tucked behind appliances, or dusts blown into wall voids–especially in kitchens or bathrooms where movement is common.
Multi-unit housing typically needs non-intrusive solutions. That means no heavy residual sprays in shared areas. Instead, crack-and-crevice applications are used, and if needed, insect growth regulators (IGRs) that interrupt reproduction cycles. It’s quieter, safer for tenants, and just… less dramatic overall.
For recurring issues, like those with ants or silverfish, bait stations get placed discreetly–baseboards, under sinks, near drains. Not visible, but doing their job slowly over time. And if rodents are the concern? Snap traps inside lockable boxes, never out in the open. In some cases, a technician might even seal gaps with copper mesh or foam on the same visit. Depends how bad it is.
Are Treatments Disruptive?
Not usually. Most visits wrap up in under an hour. You might need to leave during or right after, depending on the material used. But that’s discussed upfront. If you’re renting, you should loop in the property manager anyway–they often coordinate these visits to avoid repeating the same work in multiple units.
And while heat treatments for bed bugs are an option, they’re less common in rentals unless things are really out of hand. More often it’s a two-visit chemical plan with mattress-safe products and detailed prep instructions.
Who to Contact if You’re Hearing Scratching Behind the Walls
If you’re noticing small droppings near baseboards or hearing faint scuttling behind the drywall at night, don’t ignore it. That’s usually not just old pipes or the building settling. It’s often something alive. Rodents, especially in older buildings, find their way into units through vents, under sinks, or even shared walls. It’s unsettling. But there’s a way to deal with it properly.
- Don’t try DIY traps from the hardware store. They’re hit or miss, and more often than not, miss. You’ll waste time and possibly make the issue worse.
- Document what you’re seeing or hearing. A few photos or notes (when it happens, how often, any damage) can actually help a technician figure things out faster.
- Notify your building manager or landlord. They might already have a preferred service they trust–or they might cover the cost entirely, depending on your lease.
- If no help comes, or you’re expected to handle it on your own, use a local service that knows how to deal with multi-unit dwellings. One reliable option: https://www.thepestcontrolguy.ca/. They’re used to handling cases where things spread between units, not just isolated problems.
I’ve had neighbours try to “wait it out.” That never ends well. The sooner someone experienced steps in, the less likely things will spiral into something that affects more than just your unit. It’s not just about getting rid of what’s already there–it’s about sealing off how they got in. And that part? That takes real experience.
Who’s Responsible: Tenant or Property Manager?
- Start by checking your lease agreement. It might already say who’s expected to handle infestations. If it doesn’t, things get a little murky.
- Most landlords in Alberta are legally obligated to maintain a safe, livable space–which typically includes dealing with insects, rodents, and similar issues, especially if they’re coming from shared areas like hallways or basements.
- But here’s the catch: if the issue is isolated to your unit and clearly linked to poor housekeeping (food left out, garbage piling up, that kind of thing), you might be on the hook. It’s frustrating, but it happens.
- If you’re not sure who’s at fault, document everything. Take photos, keep a log of when you noticed signs, and report it in writing to your building manager or landlord. That creates a paper trail, which helps if there’s any dispute.
- Don’t wait for permission if you feel unsafe or overwhelmed–some tenants choose to hire help themselves and later seek reimbursement. That doesn’t always work out, so it’s a bit of a gamble, but sometimes worth it if response times are slow.
Who Handles Pest Issues in Rentals – Tenant or Landlord?
If you’re renting, the first step is to check your lease. That usually lays it out. But generally, landlords are on the hook for infestations that weren’t caused by how you’re living.
Say, for example, there’s a mouse problem, and it’s traced back to a gap in the foundation – not your overflowing recycling bin. Then it’s the landlord’s responsibility to get that sorted. Same if bedbugs or cockroaches show up in multiple units. That points to a structural or building-wide issue.
When You Might Be Responsible
- If there’s evidence that clutter, poor cleaning, or food waste attracted the issue – that falls on you.
- Delays in reporting make things worse. If you wait too long, and it spreads, you could end up sharing the cost.
In Alberta, the Residential Tenancies Act says landlords have to maintain the place in a “habitable condition,” which includes being free from infestations. But that doesn’t mean tenants are off the hook entirely. You’re expected to keep things reasonably clean, report any problems quickly, and not cause the issue through negligence.
What to Do First
- Document what you see – photos, dates, where it started.
- Tell your property manager or landlord immediately. Written notice is better than a quick message.
- Wait for direction. If they ignore it, then you might have to take steps yourself and keep receipts.
Honestly, it gets tricky if both sides deny responsibility. Mediation or a tenancy dispute resolution might be needed. But unless you’ve done something to invite the problem in, it’s usually not your job to fix it.
Is It Legal to Hire a Professional to Handle Infestations in a Rental Unit?
Yes, you’re absolutely allowed to hire someone if you’re renting–though it’s not always your responsibility. In most cases, landlords are legally required to address insect or rodent problems. That said, if you’ve already contacted the property manager and they’re not acting quickly, you’re within your rights to bring in licensed help yourself.
Under Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act, the property owner has to ensure the unit meets health and safety standards. That includes preventing or addressing infestations. If that obligation isn’t being met, renters can take steps to protect their space. Just make sure you’ve given written notice to the landlord before booking any service on your own. It helps to have a paper trail.
One caveat–if the issue started because of something you did (like poor garbage storage or failing to report it early), then the cost might fall on you. That’s rare, but it happens. Best to document everything and speak to the landlord first. If they drag their feet, go ahead and get help–especially if the situation is getting worse.
I’ve known a couple of tenants who waited too long thinking it wasn’t their place to act. In the end, it only made things messier–literally and financially. Don’t wait if the situation’s getting out of hand.
How to Deal with Infestations in a Rental Unit
Don’t wait for it to get worse. If you’re seeing droppings, strange smells, or even hearing scratching at night, contact a licensed service right away. Delays often lead to more costly, drawn-out solutions. And if you’re renting, it’s usually the landlord’s responsibility to resolve the issue–but that doesn’t mean you should sit on your hands.
Start by reviewing your lease. Many tenancy agreements in Alberta outline who’s responsible when an infestation shows up. In most cases, the property manager is on the hook for hiring professionals to inspect and treat the unit. Still, you’re expected to report issues quickly and cooperate during any treatments. That includes following prep instructions, which–yeah, I know–can be tedious. But it matters. Not following them can mean they have to come back again, which nobody wants.
If your landlord isn’t responding? Document everything. Photos, timestamps, written messages. Then, reach out to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or Alberta Health Services if things go nowhere. Ignoring the problem isn’t just unpleasant–it’s a health risk, especially in multi-unit buildings where things can spread fast.
One tip: avoid DIY sprays or traps from hardware stores while waiting. Some of them just push the issue deeper into walls or neighbouring suites. A certified technician uses regulated treatments that actually resolve the root cause, not just mask symptoms. And they’ll typically do follow-ups–at least the good ones do.
How Should You Prepare Your Unit Before a Professional Visit?
Remove all items from the floors, especially around baseboards. That means shoes, laundry baskets, pet bowls–anything that might block access. Don’t just push things to the side; full visibility helps the technician work faster and more thoroughly.
Empty out the cabinets under your sinks. Kitchen and bathroom plumbing areas are common entry points, so those spaces need to be completely clear. If there’s anything you haven’t cleaned in a while, give it a quick wipe–it helps spot activity.
If you’ve noticed movement in a specific area, make a note or leave a small sign. A sticky note with “saw something here” works. It sounds unnecessary, but it’s easy to forget details in the moment, and it gives them a place to start.
Vacuum thoroughly, especially along edges and corners. Don’t mop right after, though–leave surfaces dry so any treatments applied will stick properly. If you just cleaned yesterday, that’s fine, but double-check behind doors and under furniture. Missed crumbs add up.
Laundry should be off the floor and bedsheets pulled back or changed. If there’s been activity near sleeping areas, consider stripping the bed entirely. It’s slightly annoying, but better than dealing with re-treatment later.
Finally, let them know about pets, roommates, or maintenance schedules. Timing matters, and it’s easier to plan when everyone’s on the same page. Even a heads-up about allergies or sensitivities helps–they’re not mind readers.
Is It Allowed to Bring In a Private Exterminator?
Yes–tenants are usually within their rights to arrange their own service if the landlord doesn’t act after being informed. Just make sure you’ve given written notice first. Some property managers might prefer using their own contractors, which can delay things. But waiting too long when there are insects or rodents involved isn’t reasonable.
If you’re renting, double-check your lease. It may say the landlord has to approve any third-party visits. Still, if there’s a clear health concern–like droppings, chewed wires, or a recurring infestation–you’re not stuck. Health and safety take priority. There are cases where residents have been reimbursed after handling the issue themselves, especially when there’s documentation showing the issue was reported and ignored.
What to Keep in Mind
Hire a licensed technician. That’s not just bureaucracy–it protects you legally if anything gets damaged or if your landlord questions the process. Also, ask them to give you a report or receipt that mentions what was treated and why. Some companies include photos, which helps if there’s any dispute later.
I once had a neighbour who waited over a month because their landlord “was working on it.” They ended up dealing with it themselves and never regretted it–except maybe not acting sooner.
Addressing Infestation Issues in Your Home
If you notice unwanted critters in your living space, it’s best to take action sooner rather than later. You don’t have to handle it on your own; professionals are equipped to manage these situations. Whether it’s a sudden problem or a recurring one, getting expert help can often save you time and stress.
Look into services offered by local specialists who can assess the situation and propose a tailored solution. They usually offer a range of treatments, so you’ll want to ensure they use methods suitable for your specific issue. In some cases, the type of infestation can affect the approach taken, so be prepared to discuss what you’ve been noticing. Whether it’s rodents, insects, or something else, the more details you provide, the better the outcome.
Additionally, make sure the company you choose is licensed and insured. This isn’t just a formality – it ensures the safety of your home and belongings. There are also reviews and ratings that can give you insight into how reliable and efficient a service is. You might find it useful to read up on customer experiences before making your decision. Word of mouth can also be valuable, though the internet makes it easy to do some research on your own.
Don’t hesitate to ask about their prevention strategies too. A lot of services not only focus on immediate removal but also offer long-term solutions to keep your home secure. These services may help address any weaknesses in your current setup that are letting these pests in. It’s about more than just getting rid of the issue–it’s about preventing it from happening again.
One last thing: check your building’s policies. Sometimes, if you’re in a shared building or a complex, there are specific guidelines on who is responsible for dealing with these issues. The more you know about what’s expected, the smoother the process will go.
How to Handle Unwanted Critters in Your Living Space
When facing an issue with critters in your home, you may feel a bit overwhelmed, wondering what steps to take next. It’s understandable – these creatures can appear out of nowhere and make themselves at home quickly. So, what’s the best move? Well, the quickest route might involve reaching out to a reliable service to deal with the situation. You’re not alone in this, and professionals can help you get rid of unwanted visitors efficiently and with minimal hassle.
Why Seek Assistance?
Some individuals think they can manage it themselves, maybe by buying a few traps or sprays, but there’s more to it than that. The key issue here is that critters don’t always make their presence obvious. By the time you spot one or two, there may already be more hiding in spots you can’t see. Trying to fix it alone could lead to temporary fixes at best. But with the right help, you can avoid recurring problems and ensure long-term peace of mind. Plus, experts have the tools and know-how to handle even the trickiest infestations.
What to Expect From a Specialist
- Assessment: The first thing they’ll do is evaluate your living space. They’ll search high and low for signs of any critters and identify the source of the problem.
- Prevention Tips: You’ll get advice on how to keep things critter-free in the future. Whether it’s sealing off entry points or changing up certain habits, they’ll suggest small but important changes that can make a big difference.
- Expert Solutions: If you do need a more hands-on approach, they’ll deploy
