The NYCHA Journal

The NYCHA Journal has informed and inspired residents since 1970, covering the news, contributions, and uplifting stories of the NYCHA community while providing the latest information on Authority initiatives.

IPM process at NYCHA
IPM Top Story 

NYCHA’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approach

Vincent Echavaria
NYCHA is changing how it treats pests through its integrated pest management (IPM) approach. Under NYCHA’s pest control protocol, every apartment is inspected for pests regularly. To help prepare for a NYCHA exterminator’s visit to the apartment, residents are asked to empty all kitchen and bathroom cabinets so that exterminators can get to the potential problem spot.
Residents are also asked to empty all closets and clear space for the exterminators so they can more easily access common problem areas for insects and other pests. 
After cabinets and closets are emptied, exterminators may also vacuum and clean these areas to get rid of any roach feces or shells that attract them. Exterminators may also scrub surfaces with dish washing liquid so that caulking material can adhere to the surface, sealing cracks and crevices. 
Through IPM, NYCHA exterminators are spending more time inside apartments to look for and eliminate the root cause of a pest infestation, such as holes in a cabinet or around pipes and leaks.  
As part of the inspection, exterminators will look for and seal with caulk any holes, cracks, or crevices that pests are using to get inside. Inspectors will also look for food or water sources. 
Under IPM, exterminators will use less pesticide spray and more pesticide gel for roaches, which is a safer measure for everyone. IPM is less harmful to people and pets than traditional pest control methods because it uses the least toxic chemicals applied in the safest manner. The reduced use of pesticides is good for the environment and local ecosystems and significantly decreases asthma- and allergen-related issues. 
Before any pest treatment is performed in their apartment, residents are asked to inform the exterminator if they have any allergies or asthma. At the end of the visit, residents are asked to inspect the extermination work that was conducted and sign for the completed job.

For more information on IPM and pest control at NYCHA, click here. To report pests, please call the Customer Contact Center at 718-707-7771 or use the MyNYCHA app or website.