Guide
Preparing for a pest control visit
Preparation depends on the pest and the product, so the company's instructions come first. Here's how to get them, and what usually helps.
What to ask before the visit
EPA says a company should inspect the home and outline a plan. These are the items it lists, in question form:
- Which pests are you treating, and how big is the problem?
- What active ingredient and form of product will you use, and how will you apply it?
- What health effects are associated with it, and what symptoms should I watch for?
- Are there non-chemical options?
- How should we prepare, and how long should people and pets stay out?
- What can we do afterward to keep the problem from returning?
In Tennessee you can also request a copy of the label and safety data sheet. Tell the company about anyone in the home who is pregnant, has asthma or allergies, or is very young or elderly, and about pets and fish tanks.
What usually helps at home
- Clear the areas the company will need to reach, such as under sinks, along baseboards and crawl space hatches.
- Put food away in sealed containers.
- Pick up pet dishes and toys if asked.
- Do the laundry and cleaning on the list for bed bugs. EPA treats preparation as part of the control.
- Hold off on your own sprays, since some interfere with baits and scatter pests.
- Have someone home who can answer questions and sign any paperwork.
On the day
Check the charter number on the vehicle and ask to see the applicator's card. Point out where you've seen activity. Before they leave, get a written note of what was applied and where, when you can go back in, and what happens next.
Afterward
Do the sanitation and sealing the company suggests. UT Extension is direct about this: professionals need your help too. Keep seeing pests? Call the company back. Seeing some activity for a while can be normal, depending on the method, so ask what to expect.