An owner occupying a condo located in a recent building in Saint-Lambert, on the South Shore, contacted Nova Extermination after several nights disturbed by unexplained bites. Having initially thought they were mosquito bites, he finally discovered, while inspecting his mattress, the characteristic traces left by bed bugs: droppings in blackheads, moults and a few adult individuals hidden in the seams. In a condominium building, speed of intervention is essential to prevent the spread to neighbouring units, and communication with the condominium is an essential dimension of the treatment.
Assessment of the extent in the unit and common areas
Our technicians first conducted a detailed inspection of the owner’s unit, covering the master bedroom, living room, and extra bedroom. The bugs were concentrated in the master bedroom, with a secondary presence in the living room sofa, a piece of furniture frequently used as a resting surface. We also inspected the common areas of the adjoining hallway and the entrance joints of the unit to assess the risk of spread. In collaboration with the building manager, two adjacent units were also inspected: one had slight traces requiring preventive treatment. This co-ownership context requires rigorous coordination, different from an isolated house, as can be seen in our documented co-ownership project. The use of our specialized bed bug service guarantees an approach adapted to each type of building.
Spray treatment and powder application
Given the configuration of the unit and the constraints of a condominium building in Saint-Lambert, near Saint-Hubert, we opted for a combination of low-odour residual insecticide and diatomaced powder. The residual insecticide was applied to all surfaces that could be corridors for bed bug movement: bed frames, box spring slats, baseboards, carpet edges, and spaces behind electrical outlets. The diatomaced powder, a natural mineral substance without chemical risk once dry, was blown into the wall voids, the gaps in the baseboards and under the furniture. The infested sofa was treated with high-temperature steam for the cushions, supplemented by a residual insecticide on the internal structure. The adjacent unit received light preventative treatment to break any potential migration circuit. Our team in Saint-Lambert regularly intervenes in this type of building and masters the appropriate protocols.
Monitoring, prevention and coordination with the condominium
A two-week follow-up confirmed the effectiveness of the treatment in both treated units. Bed bug traps have been left in place to ensure continuous monitoring. The landlord has been informed of the essential best practices: avoid buying second-hand upholstered furniture without prior inspection, inspect their luggage after any move, and immediately report any suspicious signs to the building manager. For the collective management of risks in the condominium, the implementation of a pest prevention plan at the building level is strongly recommended. To see another example of our work in the region, check out our residential project on the South Shore. Nova Extermination, a certified exterminator on the South Shore and the South Shore, puts its expertise at the service of condominiums in Saint-Lambert and the entire metropolitan area.