Can my landlord charge me for pest control inside another tenant's space through CAM?

No. Pest control within a specific tenant's demised premises is that tenant's cost, not a common area expense. Only extermination of common areas — lobbies, exterior perimeters, shared mechanical spaces — belongs in the CAM pool. Request invoices detailing exactly which areas were treated on each service date.

What is a reasonable pest control frequency for common areas?

Standard pest control for commercial common areas is typically quarterly or monthly depending on the property type and local pest pressure. Irregular billing (e.g., six treatments in one month) or charges far exceeding the contracted schedule suggest over-billing. Always compare invoices against the service contract.

Can my landlord charge me for pest control inside another tenant's space through CAM?

No. Pest control within a specific tenant's demised premises is that tenant's cost, not a common area expense. Only extermination of common areas — lobbies, exterior perimeters, shared mechanical spaces — belongs in the CAM pool. Request invoices detailing exactly which areas were treated on each service date.

What is a reasonable pest control frequency for common areas?

Standard pest control for commercial common areas is typically quarterly or monthly depending on the property type and local pest pressure. Irregular billing (e.g., six treatments in one month) or charges far exceeding the contracted schedule suggest over-billing. Always compare invoices against the service contract.

Pest Control: CAM Line Item Audit Guide

Routine extermination and pest prevention services limited to common areas including lobbies, mechanical rooms, and exterior perimeters.

Recoverability & Controllability by Lease Type

Lease Type	Recoverable?	Controllable?
NNN	Yes	Yes
Modified Gross	Yes	Yes
Full-Service Gross	No	Yes

Approximate budget share: 1-2% of total CAM pool.

Common Abuse Patterns

Landlords bill pest control for individual tenant premises — particularly restaurants or food-service tenants who attract pests — through the general CAM pool charged to all tenants.

Red Flags to Watch

Pest control billing frequency inconsistent with any contracted schedule
References to specific tenant suites on pest control invoices
"Emergency extermination" charges for events within a tenant's suite
Pest control costs increase dramatically after a food-service tenant moves in

Your Right to Dispute

Limit pest control CAM charges strictly to common area extermination. Individual tenant premises pest control must be billed directly to that tenant. Request vendor invoices specifying the areas serviced on each visit.

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Related Resources

GlossaryCAM Glossary GlossaryControllable Expenses ResourcesCAM Audit by State ToolsFree CAM Audit Tools

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This page provides general educational information. It is not legal advice and may not reflect the most current law in your state. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.