Simple Ways to Keep Birds Out of Commercial Spaces

Table of Contents

Through the course of this article you will learn the following things:

• Why are birds a menace to businesses in Singapore?
• NEA bird control recommendations for businesses
• 3 ways to manage Singapore bird pest control
• Services vs. devices for bird pest control in Singapore
• Frequently Asked Questions

And with that, let’s get right into it.

Why are birds a menace to businesses in Singapore?

Recent NEA reports show that bird-related complaints in commercial areas have increased by 40% since 2022 in Singapore city. This is certainly not helped by the strict fines that your business will get if your public-facing space is unclean or unhygienic.

And a key headache for business owners is birds. Let's look at why bird pest control has become crucial for Singapore's business community.

• First, there's the critical issue of health code compliance. Singapore's strict F&B regulations mean that even a single bird incident can trigger warnings or closures. Restaurants, especially those with outdoor seating, frequently need pest control services in Singapore to maintain their hygiene grades. Bird droppings near food preparation areas can lead to immediate closure orders, devastating for business reputation and revenue.

• Then there's the substantial property damage. Commercial bird control has become essential because birds' acidic droppings corrode building materials and damage expensive signage. Shopping centres report spending upwards of $10,000 monthly just on cleaning and repairs. Also, air conditioning systems, particularly in industrial buildings, face frequent breakdowns when birds nest in the units.

• Customer experience takes a massive hit too. Retail spaces lose customers when birds swoop around entrances or create unsightly messes in shopping areas. Many hotels too report lower ratings and lost bookings when birds disturb guests' peace or damage pool areas. This is why many businesses now maintain annual contracts with bird control contractors.

• For industrial spaces, birds create serious safety hazards. Their nests can block crucial ventilation systems, creating fire risks. Warehouses face inventory damage from droppings, and loading bays become hazardous when birds make them their regular roosting spots. NEA bird control guidelines specifically highlight these safety concerns for industrial properties.

Speaking of NEA bird control guidelines, let’s look at what bird pest control tips the government agency has given to business owners.

NEA bird control recommendations for businesses

The NEA stands for the National Environmental Agency of Singapore. It also doubles up as the authority on pest control. Here are the NEA's latest guidelines for bird pest control:

• Seal all potential nesting areas, especially around air-conditioning units and roof spaces
• Install physical barriers like netting or spikes in roosting areas
• Keep all food preparation and storage areas fully enclosed
• Maintain strict cleaning schedules, especially for outdoor dining areas
• Remove any standing water that could attract birds
• Never leave food waste exposed in outdoor bins
• Install proper waste management systems with covered bins
• Train staff in proper food waste disposal methods
• Document all bird-related incidents for NEA compliance (quarterly inspections)

Now, let's explore 3 professional bird pest control solutions that protect your business investment.

3 ways to manage Singapore bird pest control

When it comes to protecting your commercial space from birds, there are three main approaches. Let’s look at each.

1. Physical Deterrents

The most reliable form of bird pest control, these create permanent barriers that prevent birds from landing or nesting. Anti-roosting strips cost $5-15 per foot and last 5-10 years, making them cost-effective for long-term protection. 

Bird spikes, while slightly more visible, are incredibly effective for ledges and air-con units. Anti-bird roosting gel ($20-40 per tube) needs replacement every 6-8 months but works well for irregular surfaces.

2. Visual Deterrents

These commercial bird control solutions are less invasive but require more frequent maintenance. Moving predator devices ($150-300) need battery changes but effectively cover large areas. Reflective strips ($10-20 per roll) and anti-bird eyes ($15-30 each) are affordable but need replacement every 3-4 months due to Singapore's weather.

3. Professional bird control services

Many businesses opt for regular service contracts with bird control contractors. Monthly services range from $200-500 depending on property size. These professionals combine multiple methods and provide documentation for NEA compliance.

But how do you choose between managing your own devices and hiring professional services? 

Let's break down the comparison.

Services vs. devices for bird pest control in Singapore

Here are the main differences between bird pest control devices and bird control services in Singapore:

And with that, we come to the end of this article. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is bird control needed in Singapore?

Birds like pigeons and mynas can cause property damage, health risks, and mess in urban areas.

2. How much does bird control cost?

Costs vary based on area size, control method, and materials. Request a quote for an accurate price.

3. Will bird control measures affect my property's Green Mark certification?

No, professional bird pest control solutions are compatible with Green Mark requirements. On the contrary, bird control contractors can give you eco-friendly options for control as well. These can boost your building's green certification if you document the humane, eco-friendly methods used.

4. How quickly can I expect results after implementing bird control measures?

You typically see a 50-70% reduction in bird activity within the first week. However, complete control usually takes 3-4 weeks as birds adjust their patterns.

5. How to stop pigeons from roosting?

Use bird spikes, slanted strips, or wire mesh to block ledges and windowsills.

6. Do pigeons spread diseases?

Yes, pigeons can carry diseases through their droppings, feathers, or parasites.