Although it seems we’re squarely in the 21st century, managing algorithms, artificial intelligence, the latest in hardware and figuring out how to provide fatter internet pipes, some aspects of multifamily management have remained the same since our industry was born and they have nothing to do with technology.

As a multifamily professional, one of our top priorities is maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for our residents. However, when it comes to bed bugs, the challenge becomes even more complex. These tiny pests are not only a nuisance but can also damage your reputation and tenant satisfaction if not managed properly.

Bed bugs are notorious for their resilience and adaptability, making them a difficult pest to eradicate. This webinar will provide you with actionable insights and practical strategies that will empower you to handle these pesky intruders effectively. Whether you’re dealing with an ongoing infestation or aiming to prevent one, this session is tailored to address your unique challenges and concerns, and to satisfy the requirements of HUD’s guidelines on addressing infestations.

What You Will Learn:

• Recognize early signs of bed bug infestations in apartment units and common areas to enable prompt response.
• Understand bed bug biology and behavior to better predict infestation patterns and hiding places.
• Differentiate between effective and ineffective treatment methods, including common DIY approaches that may cause infestations to spread.
• Identify high-risk scenarios and units that are more prone to infestations due to occupant behavior or building layout.
• Learn how to communicate effectively with residents about bed bug issues, minimizing panic while encouraging cooperation.
• Evaluate professional pest control options, including heat treatments, chemical applications, and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Establish proactive inspection and monitoring routines using tools like interceptors, encasements, and scheduled visual inspections.
• Develop a bed bug response protocol tailored to multifamily properties, including reporting, documentation, and follow-up procedures.
• Review legal and regulatory responsibilities for apartment managers regarding pest control and tenant rights.
• Apply cost-effective prevention and containment measures to reduce long-term pest control expenses and tenant turnover.

Areas Covered In The Session:

• Life Cycle and Behavior: Gain a thorough understanding of bed bugs’ life cycle, habits, and preferred hiding spots. Knowledge is power, and recognizing these factors will enhance your ability to manage and prevent infestations.
• Identification Tips: Learn how to identify bed bugs and their signs early on.
• Implementing Effective Prevention Strategies
• Routine Inspections: Discover best practices for conducting regular inspections and the signs to look for.
• Tenant Education: Understand how to educate and involve your tenants in bed bug prevention.
• Maintenance Protocols: Learn the importance of maintaining a bed bug-free environment through proper cleaning and maintenance protocols.
• Managing Infestations: From Detection to Eradication
• Initial Response: Understand the critical steps to take immediately after discovering a bed bug infestation.
• Treatment Options: Explore various treatment methods, including chemical and non-chemical approaches.
• Working with Professionals: Discover how to effectively collaborate with pest control professionals and ensure that treatments are thorough and effective.
• Handling Tenant Communication and Concerns
• Clear Communication: Learn how to communicate with tenants about bed bug issues professionally and empathetically.
• Documentation and Follow-Up: Understand the importance of documenting incidents and follow-ups to ensure that all issues are addressed and resolved satisfactorily.
• Building a Long-Term Bed Bug Management Plan
• Creating Policies: Develop and implement effective bed bug policies for your apartment community.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Learn how to establish a system for continuous monitoring and reassessment of your bed bug management strategies to ensure long-term success.

Why Should You Attend?

• You’ll learn what bed bugs look like at various stages in their life cycle and what the signs of an infestation are.
• We’ll explore and discuss treatment protocols.
• You’ll learn prevention strategies to avoid infestations.
• We’ll share communication and documentation essentials as well as reviewing legal obligations

Who Will Benefit:

• Regional/Area Manager/Supervisor,
• Housing Director
• Housing Manager
• Property Manager
• Property Supervisor
• Occupancy Specialists
• Community Manager/Director,
• Facility Professionals
• Maintenance Supervisor, Maintenance Techs, and Training Professionals.