Moving into a new office is exciting—but the last thing your team needs is to discover cockroaches, rodents, or termites after the desks are set up. Pest problems in a commercial space can disrupt operations, damage equipment, and send the wrong message to clients. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to inspect your new office for pests before move-in, what to ask building management, and how United Local Movers supports clean, safe transitions to your next workspace.
Why Pest Checks Matter in Commercial Spaces
Pest infestations aren’t just unsightly—they’re a health risk, a liability, and a productivity killer. In an office setting, pests can:
- Contaminate food and shared kitchen areas
- Chew through wires and damage IT equipment
- Cause foul odors or visible droppings
- Trigger allergic reactions among staff
- Lead to fines during health or safety inspections
That’s why a pre-move pest inspection is a must—not an afterthought.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Even if the space appears clean, look for these red flags during your walkthrough:
- Droppings: Small dark pellets in corners, under sinks, or near baseboards
- Strange odors: A musty or oily smell can indicate rodents or cockroach infestations
- Chewed materials: Frayed wiring, shredded paper, or gnawed wood or drywall
- Dead bugs: Clusters near windows, vents, or in storage closets
- Nest materials: Bits of insulation, paper, or fabric tucked into corners
- Live sightings: Even one rodent or roach suggests a larger problem
Ask the Right Questions
If you’re leasing the office space, ask the property manager or landlord the following:
- When was the last professional pest inspection?
- Is there an ongoing pest control service in place?
- Have there been past issues with rodents, termites, or insects?
- Can I review recent inspection or treatment reports?
- What are my responsibilities for pest prevention under the lease?
A reputable landlord should be transparent and provide documentation if requested.
Consider a Professional Inspection
If you’re unsure or the space has been vacant for a while, it may be worth hiring a licensed pest control professional to inspect the premises before moving day. This is especially critical if:
- The building is older and may have structural gaps
- The space has been unoccupied for several weeks or months
- Previous tenants reported infestations or odor issues
Pest-Proofing Before Move-In
Even if no pests are detected, it’s smart to take preventive steps before bringing in furniture and equipment:
- Seal cracks or gaps around baseboards, windows, and doors
- Install mesh covers over vents and drains
- Use door sweeps to close off entry points at ground level
- Keep all food sealed in airtight containers
- Establish regular janitorial service before occupancy
How United Local Movers Helps
At United Local Movers, we understand the importance of starting fresh in a clean, pest-free workspace. We can:
- Help coordinate pest inspections with local professionals before your move
- Adjust move-in timelines based on inspection or treatment schedules
- Keep all packing materials sealed and contained to avoid contamination
- Support clean, efficient unpacking to reduce post-move mess
We don’t just move boxes—we help create healthy, functional spaces from day one.
After the Move: Ongoing Vigilance
Once you’ve moved in, keep up good habits to deter future infestations:
- Empty trash bins daily and sanitize kitchen areas
- Don’t leave food out in shared spaces overnight
- Schedule quarterly pest control visits if not provided by the landlord
- Report any signs of pests to building management immediately
Final Thoughts
A beautiful new office can quickly lose its shine if pests take hold. Taking the time to inspect and pest-proof your space before moving in saves time, money, and morale. With help from United Local Movers, you can focus on settling in—not dealing with unwanted guests.
