Kenmore Pest Control & Termit Services, a Maryland-based pest control company, is held responsible for the contamination in Washington, D.C., and must pay $137,000 in fines and environmental cleanup costs to the District.
Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb said: “Washingtonians have a right to protect their homes and neighborhoods from toxic contamination.”
“This settlement makes clear that the Attorney General’s Office will hold companies accountable when they violate environmental protection laws, damage natural resources, and threaten the health and safety of residents.” they added.
According to the OAG investigation, Kenmore Pest Control & Termite Services Inc. sprayed highly toxic pesticides around the Mayfair Mansion Apartments and Columbia Heights Village apartment complexes.
The toxic pesticides were reportedly sprayed in areas easily accessible to children and pets, and a dog in Columbia Heights Village was even attacked by the company’s pesticides.
DC Assistant Attorney General Wesley Rosenfeld revealed WTOP, “One time a resident’s dog ingested the pesticide.”
“Following an investigation it was determined the dog had sustained injuries and the resident was responsible for any veterinary costs.” Rosenfeld added.
The dog is reportedly doing well now, but the owner had to take him to the vet for a gastric lavage.
Additionally, pest control companies are misleading the public into believing they are in compliance with DC law by claiming that their employees are “fully licensed” and “certified.”
In fact, Kenmore Pest Control & Termite Services has been allowing unlicensed employees to spray pesticides for years.
“Kenmore records show that between 2019 and 2022, employees applied restricted use pesticides without the legally required licenses or registrations.” The OAG revealed this.
In addition to the fine, the pest control company will be placed on probation for three years, meaning any future violations will be dealt with promptly.
“The company’s employees are prohibited from spraying pesticides until they receive proper training.The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) further stated: statement.
Going forward, Kenmore Pest Control & Termit Services employees will not be permitted to apply pesticides until they complete eight hours of training in pest management at a course approved by the states of Washington, DC, Maryland or Virginia.
