What Should I Do Before Pest Control?

Rentokil Boecker Answers

I’m having my home treated for pests. What should I do before the pest control team arrives?

Preparing your home before a pest control treatment can help technicians access the areas that need to be inspected and treated and can improve the overall effectiveness of the service. The preparation required will depend on the type of pest, the treatment method, and the areas being treated.

Before the treatment, you may be asked to:

• Remove or cover food, cooking utensils, and food preparation items
• Store food in sealed containers and clear kitchen surfaces
• Remove unnecessary clutter from areas where pests may be hiding
• Move furniture or belongings away from walls where access is required
• Secure children's toys, pet food, and other personal items
• Empty or cover certain cupboards, depending on the treatment
• Keep children and pets away from the treatment area during the service
• Follow any specific preparation instructions provided by the pest control technician

Cleaning can also be helpful before treatment, particularly when food crumbs, spills, rubbish, or other sources of food and moisture may be attracting pests. However, avoid cleaning or disturbing areas that the technician has specifically asked you to leave accessible for inspection.

The preparation required can vary depending on the pest being treated. For example, bed bug treatments may require specific preparation of bedding, clothing, furniture, and personal belongings, while cockroach or ant treatments may focus more on food storage, kitchen areas, and reducing access to hiding places.

It is also important to tell the pest control professional about any areas where you have noticed pest activity, including sightings, droppings, damage, or unusual smells. This information can help the technician identify potential harbourage areas and determine where treatment should be focused.

After the treatment, you may also need to follow specific instructions about ventilation, cleaning, re-entry times, or other precautions. Following the technician's preparation and aftercare instructions can help support the effectiveness of the treatment and reduce the likelihood of pest activity returning.

If you are unsure how to prepare your home, contact your pest control provider before the appointment. They can explain the specific preparation steps required based on the pest being treated and the treatment method being used.