Rattlesnakes and Rental Properties: What Landlords Should Know

Written By Kevin Newman

Arizona landlords know the challenges of managing homes in the desert: heat, water, landscaping, pests … and rattlesnakes. In Maricopa County and across the Sonoran Desert, rattlesnake encounters at rental properties are more common than most property owners realize. For landlords, understanding why rattlesnakes show up, how to handle tenant concerns, and what preventive steps to take can protect both residents and property value.

Why Rattlesnakes Show Up at Rental Properties

Rattlesnakes aren’t looking for people—they’re looking for shelter, food, and water. Rental homes often provide all three.

Landscaping features such as rock piles, dense shrubs, and untrimmed grass create shade and hunting spots.

Irrigation and drip systems attract rodents and birds, a rattlesnake’s favorite prey.

Gaps under sheds, patios, and AC units offer perfect hiding spots.

It doesn’t matter if the home is in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Mesa—rattlesnakes thrive anywhere there’s suitable habitat, from urban subdivisions to desert-edge rental communities.

Landlord Responsibilities and Tenant Safety

As a landlord, you’re not expected to eliminate every wild animal from the desert. But you are expected to keep the property safe and well maintained. Tenants often panic when they see a rattlesnake, and their first call is usually to the landlord or property manager.

Here’s what landlords should keep in mind:

  • Prompt response is key – Taking tenant concerns seriously helps build trust and avoids liability.

  • Use professional snake removal – A licensed rattlesnake removal service in Phoenix ensures the snake is relocated humanely and safely.

  • Educate tenants – Many tenants are new to Arizona and don’t know how to behave around snakes. Providing a short guide or safety sheet can prevent accidents.

Common Mistakes Landlords Make

We’ve seen a lot of preventable snake problems while doing rattlesnake removal across Maricopa County. A few recurring issues stand out:

  • Ignoring rodent activity – If a rental property has roof rats or packrats, rattlesnakes won’t be far behind.

  • Unsealed yards – Many landlords never consider snake fencing until after a tenant has a close call.

  • DIY attempts – Tenants or landlords trying to “deal with it themselves” often end up in the ER or with a dead snake in the yard. Both outcomes are bad.

How to Rattlesnake-Proof Rental Properties

Landlords can take proactive steps that not only reduce snake encounters but also increase rental appeal:

The Bottom Line for Arizona Landlords

Rattlesnakes are a natural part of life in Arizona, but with the right approach, they don’t have to be a constant problem for rental properties. By maintaining landscaping, sealing access points, and building a relationship with a licensed rattlesnake removal service, landlords can protect tenants and property value.

When in doubt, remember: snakes don’t respect lease agreements—but with preparation, you can keep your rentals safe and your tenants at ease.

Call Arizona Snake Removal – Your Local Experts

If you own or manage rental property in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, or anywhere in Maricopa County, Arizona Snake Removal is here to help. Our team provides 24/7 rattlesnake removal, property inspections, and professional snake fencing designed for Arizona homes. Protect your tenants, reduce liability, and keep your rental properties safe with trusted, local rattlesnake experts.

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