How To Prepare Your Home For A Pest Control Treatment

A treatment works best when the technician can actually reach the areas that matter. Half an hour of preparation the night before usually makes the difference between a thorough job and a compromised one.

Preparation and re-entry requirements vary depending on the pest and the products being used, so always follow the specific instructions you are given for your job. The list below covers what applies to most general treatments.

Before the day

• Tell your technician who lives in the home — children, pets, anyone pregnant or with respiratory sensitivities.
• Mention any fish tanks, bird cages or reptile enclosures so they can be covered or the treatment adjusted.
• Note where you have seen activity and when, so time is not spent hunting for it.
• Arrange access to the garage, subfloor, roof space or meter box if those areas are relevant.

In the kitchen

• Clear benches of food, utensils and appliances.
• Store open food in sealed containers or in the fridge.
• Empty the bin and take it outside.
• Pull items away from the back of pantry shelves and under-sink cupboards if those areas are being treated.
• Wipe up crumbs and spills — a clean surface holds treatment better and removes competing food sources.

Around the rest of the house

• Move furniture a little away from walls where possible so skirting boards are accessible.
• Pick up toys, clothing and pet bedding off the floor.
• Vacuum thoroughly, especially along edges, under beds and around lounges — this is particularly important for fleas.
• Strip and wash bedding on a hot cycle if the job is for fleas or bed bugs, unless you are told otherwise.

Outside

• Unlock side gates and clear access along the exterior walls.
• Move outdoor furniture, pot plants and toys away from the walls being treated.
• Bring in pet bowls, washing and children's play equipment.
• Secure any dogs so the technician can work safely.

Kids and pets

Plan for everyone, including pets, to be out of the treated areas for the period you are told. Do not guess this — the required time depends on the products used and the areas treated, and you will be given the specific instruction for your job before work starts.

After the treatment

• Follow the re-entry time you were given, and ventilate the house when you return.
• Do not mop or wash treated skirting boards and edges for as long as you are advised — that removes the product.
• Leave baits and stations where they are placed.
• Expect to see increased activity for a few days as pests move through the treated areas. That is the treatment working.
• If activity is still there after the settling period, get back in touch rather than treating over the top of it.

Not sure what applies to your job? Ask before the day and you'll get the instructions relevant to your treatment. Tim's Pest Control services Melbourne and surrounding suburbs.