New Text Messaging Pilot to Manage Extermination Appointments

In June, NYCHA’s Pest Management Department (PMD) is launching a text messaging pilot to improve customer service and better coordinate extermination appointments. Residents will receive text message reminders about upcoming extermination appointments in their preferred language of English, Spanish, Chinese, or Russian – the initial text will ask residents to confirm, reschedule, or cancel the appointment.  

If confirming the appointment, residents will receive a response text with information on what the exterminator will do during the appointment and how to prepare for the appointment. The text will also provide a link to a webpage that has more details about the pest control process as well as labels of pesticide products NYCHA uses. If a resident needs to reschedule, they will receive the number of the extermination planner in their borough to call to reschedule. If a resident needs to cancel, the extermination work order will be closed, unless the appointment is tied to a mold inspection or court case (which cannot be cancelled).  

“More communication with residents can help the effectiveness of extermination appointments by preventing missed appointments and reminding residents that if they see a pest somewhere they should move items out of that closet or cabinet so the exterminator can seal a hole or better treat it,” said NYCHA PMD Senior Director Josey Bartlett. “The more we work together, the better pest management services we can provide.” 

For more information about pest control at NYCHA, visit https://www.nyc.gov/site/nycha/residents/pest-control.page.