How often do I need pest control?

How often do I need pest control? It's not an easy question to answer. Your location, the type of pest you are trying to eliminate and other factors will determine how often pest control is needed.

If you've never had a pest control service inspect your property, you need to have them do a thorough inspection as soon as possible. They may detect pests you didn't know you had. If you have had a service treat your home for pests in the past, the problem may not have been eliminated completely. These are some recommendations from pest control experts.

Pest Control FAQs

Why do I need more than one pest control treatment?

We often assume a one-off treatment will be enough to end a problem. However, many pests lay eggs that will not be affected by the treatment. The eggs can hatch after the treatment and the house will need a second treatment and perhaps more. Pest control treatments wear off over time and pests may return.

How often should I schedule pest inspections?

It depends on your location and the types of pests that have infested your house. Sometimes it is wise to schedule bi-monthly inspections and sometimes you can wait as long as a year. For example, if you've had a problem with termites, pest control experts recommend having a second inspection after three months. If there are no signs of termites, a yearly inspection should suffice. Pest control experts will recommend a schedule depending on the type of infestation and its severity.

How much does pest control cost?

Pest control begins with a thorough inspection. After the problem or problems have been identified, the pest control expert will give you a quote for the required treatment. Costs can vary even for the same type of pest depending on the severity of the problem and the area that needs to be treated.

Our house is infested with fleas. How can a pest control service help?

Pest control services can remove fleas from your home, but it is up to you to remove fleas from your pets. They recommend having your veterinarian treat your pets shortly before they come in. They will also treat your pet's bedding to eliminate fleas.

What about cockroaches, ants and other common pests?

Pest control experts can eliminate common pests like cockroaches and ants, but eventually the treatment will wear off and the pests will return. To keep them out of the house, pest control experts recommend bi-monthly treatment. Reputable services often guarantee their work and if the pests return between treatments, they will take care of the problem for free.

What can you do about mice and rats?

In some areas, mice and rats can be a major problem. Treatments include baits, traps and tracking powders. The pest control expert will determine which treatment you need and will give you advice about how to prevent mice and rats from returning. In most cases, mice and rats infest a house because they find food and shelter in and around the house. First you need to eliminate the pests and then you need to remove any food sources.

Spiders are a concern in our area.

Australia is known for its venomous spiders. A pest control service can kill spiders, but they usually return. Male funnel webs come indoors in wet and hot weather looking for a mate. Male funnel webs are more deadly than females and must be eliminated as quickly as possible. You may need to get seasonal or periodic treatment to keep your house and property free of spiders.

There is no single answer to the question, "How often do I need pest control?" Start with a pest inspection from a reputable pest control expert and they can assess your problem and help you schedule retreatments if necessary.