Airbnb Host and Investors Forum North America - USA Regions South A Short Term Rental (STR) Forum Community

[hello101]

Hey Florida hosts (and others in tropical areas). I'm wondering how you all prepare your guests for the potential presence of a palmetto bug or other insects that might wander inside? I've had a guest complain that she saw a live palmetto bug in the house, but I clearly explain in the guest book that despite the house being sprayed regularly, palmetto bugs are a thing here and will occasionally find their way into the house. How have you all dealt with this?

[cavitron]

I put a disclaimer in my listing to remind guests that insects and bugs are inevitable in my area and are not a reflection on the cleanliness of the property. I also remind them upon booking in case they want to back out as well as leave framed notes near the two doors to remind them to close the doors so insects do not get in. So far no complaints out of 40+ stays.

[prospero]

My rentals are on a lake and I have in the description that what attracts us to being by the water also attracts bugs. I also say that leaving the door open (especially at night) is a great way to invite all of the bugs in to share your space, so please keep them closed in order to keep out the freeloaders. I keep wasp spray by the front door and the back door as well as a can of bug spray in a cabinet inside.
The only time I have had complaints about the bugs have been when people have left the front door open while loading/unloading their cars at night. The bugs fly in because they are attracted to the light. (This has been mostly no-seeums) When I brought them a can of indoor bug spray they were fine. These complaints happened before I added the part about leaving the doors open.