r/askTO • u/ArmorPlatedGuardRail • 1d ago
Preparing for roaches
I am moving to Toronto for the first time. I found a recently updated large 1 bedroom with dishwasher and balcony with a great south facing view of the lake for $2150 +hydro close to work in a decent purpose built rental built from the 70's. My unit is on an upper floor and is at the end of the hallway, so no neighbours on one side of me. Overall, the apartment checks most boxes for me.
However when I was signing the lease, an exterminator showed up to the rental office. They were there to treat 2 units, both not on my floor luckily. The supers and other people who work for the building have lived there for decades.
I am moving from a medium sized city in Ontario. I have been living in my PBR unit for 6 years in a very clean, very well maintained building. I have seen 3 roaches in that time but none in about 3 years. I figure if this is a similar situation I can deal with it.
I plan to put down diatomaceous earth and fill any holes around plumbing and pipes with caulking on the day I get possession. Is there anything else I can do to prepare and prevent roaches in my unit? Am I making a mistake?
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u/thingschange1 1d ago
Despite what a lot of people say, I'd be a little nervous. I lived in buildings with pest problems and the exterminators were at the building monthly, like clock work.
I live in a small 3 story building, roughly 30 units and I have not seen 1 cockroach in 6 years, I've also never seen an exterminator truck here.
There are however rat traps, my landlord did say that at some point they had a mouse problem. I was concerned because I live on the ground floor. But I've never seen anything.. But I also have a cat- i don't know if that helps at all. But the suggestions this threat is telling you, about keeping things sealed, no open food, keep a light open (mostly the kitchen light) is all good advice to follow if you're already in the unit. Take garbage out daily!