What happens if an apartment building has a bat problem? A group of bats have apparently turned a duplex into a maternity colony in Salina, Kansas. The situation seems to have escalated, causing negative press for duplex management. So what is their responsibility?
Property managers are responsible for providing a safe and habitable place for tenants to live. Tenant concerns about bats should be addressed immediately, or the issue will only continue to grow. Failing to act can result in negative consequences, like the following.
LEGAL ACTION TAKEN BY TENANTS.
Once the issue has been brought to the attention of management; if nothing is done, it opens up the potential for legal action to be brought against you by the tenants. You may find that you are asked to foot the bill for costly post-exposure rabies treatment.
People exposed to rabies need to get a series of shots, including a rabies vaccine and an antibody. The cost of post-exposure treatment varies. A course of four doses of vaccine given over two weeks averages about $3,800 per person, not including costs for hospital treatment or wound care, but can be as high as $10,000 per person depending on their health care provider. If a person is not treated and develops clinical signs of rabies, it almost always results in death.
Increased costs in the long run.
The longer a bat infestation problem is ignored, the more extensive it will become, and the higher the expense to solve the issue.
Damage to the building.
Urine and guano build-up cause damage to insulation, walls, and roofs. The bigger the colony gets, the more extensive the damage to your property.
A damaged reputation.
Failing to maintain the building and providing a safe place for tenants to live can result in bad press. People rely on reviews and feedback provided via online communities, and today people have more of a voice than ever before. Don’t underestimate the power of the tenant’s voice online.
So, taking a bat problem seriously is in your best interest as a landlord or management company. If you have a bat issue in your property don’t let it get out of hand. Call the professionals who can help you figure out your next step. Bat Remediation specialists will be able to pinpoint the places where bats are likely getting in, then remove them and seal vulnerable entry points to keep them from coming back. We can help you fix this issue once and for all. Call our customer service to set up an inspection at 877-264-2287.
Your Local Bat Removal Expert,
Michael Koski
Comments 2
Gary Nowling
November 14, 2020 |
saw one bat three days ago and another one this morning in living room 2:30am the first was in my sons upstairs bedroom around 7:00pm to days prior
Tori Bruce
November 18, 2020 |
If you need some help with your bat situation, please call our customer service number:877-264-2287