What Is In Your HOA Pest Control Contract?

If you live in a community with a Homeowner's Association (HOA), or Homeowner's Board, you know there are many things that your dues cover. One of these things in some communities is pest control services. But precisely what services do your HOA pest control contract cover, and what will you be responsible for as a homeowner? You need to know this and other inclusions and exclusions in your contract.

What Does Your HOA Cover?

This answer varies from state to state and contract to contract. For example, California Civil Code Section 1364 requires the HOA to cover repairs and maintenance to common areas unless this exception is spelled out in the governing documents. Some common areas may include:

  • Lobbies
  • Elevators
  • Stairwells
  • Clubhouses
  • Fitness centers
  • Parking lots
  • Walking trails
  • Landscaping

Based on the California code requirement, your HOA may cover pest control for common areas only, but you would be responsible for treating your residence. There may also be an exception to this rule in the bylaws. The exception may state whoever causes the pest problem would be responsible for paying to get rid of them.

For example, suppose you set uncovered garbage cans out on your patio that attract rodents to your patio and the surrounding patios and landscaping. In that case, they could charge you with the extermination bill. Of course, your HOA would have to document your violations along with the numerous notices they sent you concerning the problem before being able to charge you. 

What Types Of Pest Are Covered?

Usually, when discussing pest control services, you think of mice or roaches. While these are common household pests, there are numerous others you may have a problem with in your community. Some of these may include:

  • Raccoons
  • Squirrels
  • Rats
  • Termites
  • Ants

Even an infestation of cute little rabbits can cause significant damage to your landscaping and flower gardens.

Can HOA Pest Control Services Enter Your Home?

No one should be able to enter your home without proper notice for any services. Even with a warning, you should be able to object to the exterminator spraying your home or even using specific chemicals. This right of objection is fundamental if you have allergies or any chemical sensitivity.

Unfortunately, in some states, specific laws give your HOA authority to enter certain types of dwellings for extermination. For example, the law may authorize it for condominiums, apartments, and other multi-unit homes, but it may not allow it for single-family housing. 

Ensure you read your HOA contract to know what is or is not allowed. Contact a local HOA pest control service to learn more.

About Me

Learning About Hiring Pest Control Experts

Welcome to my site. I'm Shayna Gregory. I am here to talk to you about the benefits of hiring pest control experts once or twice a year. Pest control experts can inspect your home from top to bottom to find pests lurking in the shadows. Unless pest infestations are incredibly bad, you just won't see the critters running about the house. Instead, they sit under appliances, behind the walls or under the floors until darkness hides their presence. Despite not seeing the creatures scurrying about, their presence can cause health problems and damage to the home. My site will feature all of the benefits of hiring a pest control expert to rid the home of harmful critters. Please visit again soon.