Articles

The Top 5 Pests That Threaten Commercial Properties

Apex's On-Staff Entomologist

Jan 23, 2025

7 Min Read

Commercial properties are prime targets for pests due to their size, accessibility, and abundance of food and water sources. In this blog, we’ll discuss the top 5 pests that threaten commercial properties and how to protect your business from their impact.

Rodents (Mice and Rats)

Why They’re a Threat: Rodents can cause structural damage, contaminate food, and spread diseases like salmonella and hantavirus. They are also known to chew through electrical wires, creating fire hazards.

Signs of Infestation: Droppings, gnaw marks, and scratching noises.

Prevention Tips: Seal entry points, store food in airtight containers, and maintain cleanliness. Regularly inspect storage areas and dumpsters for signs of activity.

Cockroaches

Why They’re a Threat: Cockroaches are known carriers of pathogens and can trigger allergies and asthma. They are particularly problematic in restaurants, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities.

Signs of Infestation: Droppings, egg cases, and a musty odor.

Prevention Tips: Fix leaks, clean thoroughly, and dispose of garbage regularly. Pay special attention to kitchen areas and drains.

Flies

Why They’re a Threat: Flies can spread bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, posing a risk to food safety. They are common in restaurants, food processing facilities, and hospitals.

Signs of Infestation: Frequent sightings, especially near garbage or food areas.

Prevention Tips: Install screens, clean drains, and use fly traps. Ensure garbage is stored in sealed containers and removed regularly.

Stored Product Pests (e.g., Beetles and Moths)

Why They’re a Threat: These pests infest stored goods like grains, flour, and packaged foods, leading to product loss. They are a major concern for warehouses, grocery stores, and food manufacturers.

Signs of Infestation: Larvae, webbing, or holes in packaging.

Prevention Tips: Inspect incoming shipments and store products in sealed containers. Regularly clean storage areas and monitor for signs of activity.

Bed Bugs

Why They’re a Threat: Bed bugs can hitchhike into your property via customers or employees, leading to costly treatments and reputational damage. They are a common problem in hotels, dormitories, and office buildings.

Signs of Infestation: Blood stains on linens, fecal spots, or live bugs.

Prevention Tips: Regularly inspect furniture and educate staff on early detection. Use mattress encasements and monitor high-risk areas like guest rooms and lounges.

Get In Touch With Us:

Don’t let pests threaten your business! Contact Apex Environmental today! We offer professional pest control services tailored to your commercial property. Plus, all new clients get $50 off their first service with us. Serving the Greater Toronto Area and beyond!

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Author

Author

Author

Apex's On-Staff Entomologist

Our blogs are written by Apex Environmental’s Entomologists, who combine scientific knowledge and field experience to provide practical pest control tips. From pest behaviour to prevention strategies, our team ensures you get accurate, actionable insights to keep your space pest-free.

Get A Free Estimate Today!

Ready for a pest-free property? Fill out the form below, and we’ll provide a customized, no-obligation estimate tailored to your specific pest control needs.

Get A Free Estimate Today!

Ready for a pest-free property? Fill out the form below, and we’ll provide a customized, no-obligation estimate tailored to your specific pest control needs.

Get A Free Estimate Today!

Ready for a pest-free property? Fill out the form below, and we’ll provide a customized, no-obligation estimate tailored to your specific pest control needs.