by Brianna Crandall — July 16, 2014—Pests are a common issue in offices and a source of anxiety for office managers and related professionals, according to survey findings released by pest control leader Orkin and the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International.
The survey, which polled office, building and facilities managers in a variety of property types, revealed that 89 percent of office tenants have seen at least one pest in the past 12 months. When it comes to reporting pest sightings, almost one half of office tenants will notify building management after as little as one pest sighting, and that number jumps up to 83 percent by the time the second sighting occurs.
Although it is likely that office tenants expect to see pests on occasion, the study shows that half will start looking for a new space after multiple pest sightings.
“These survey results reveal the critical business impact that pest presence can have on a tenant’s perception of a property,” said Patricia Areno, CAE, senior vice president of BOMA International. “Tenants are saying there’s a very real possibility that they will consider moving office space if pest issues are not resolved quickly and effectively.”
While property managers are typically well informed about service visits from a pest control provider, the same cannot be said of their tenants, says BOMA. According to the study, 25 percent of office tenants rarely, if ever, are notified of pest control visits; yet, two-thirds want to be a part of the visit, or at least know in advance when it is taking place.
“Establishing an open line of communication between pest management providers, property managers and office tenants is essential to helping prevent pests from causing a problem in the workplace,” said Orkin Technical Services Director Ron Harrison, Ph.D. “Communication helps build trust and understanding, and can keep your pest management decisions proactive, rather than reactive.”
The full results of the survey, 2014 Office Industry Insights: Tenant Attitudes toward Pests and Pest Control, are available on the Orkin Web site.
Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects. A wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins Inc., the company operates more than 400 locations with almost 8,000 employees. Using a proprietary three-step approach, Orkin provides customized services to approximately 1.7 million homeowners and businesses around the globe. Orkin is committed to studying pest biology and applying scientifically proven methods, and collaborates with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and eight major universities to conduct research and help educate consumers and businesses on pest-related health threats.
The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International is a federation of 93 BOMA U.S. associations and 14 international affiliates. Founded in 1907, BOMA represents the owners and managers of all commercial property types, including nearly 10 billion square feet of U.S. office space that supports 3.7 million jobs and contributes $205 billion to the U.S. GDP. Its mission is to advance a vibrant commercial real estate industry through advocacy, influence and knowledge.
