Guide
How to prepare for a pest control visit
Start with what the company tells you. Its instructions depend on the product it plans to use, and they overrule anything on this page.
Ask these first
- What should I move or clear out?
- Do people and pets need to leave, and for how long?
- What about anyone who is pregnant, has asthma or has allergies?
- What should I do about food, dishes, fish tanks and pet bowls?
- When can I clean the treated areas?
- May I see the product label or safety data sheet?
What Texas says
The state consumer sheet says the label or safety data sheet can be supplied on request from the licensed applicator. It also says plainly that EPA registration isn't a finding of product safety. So ask, and tell the company about anyone in the house who may be more sensitive.
In many cases, signs must be posted in an area of common access at least 48 hours before treatment, which mostly matters in shared buildings. EPA's consumer guide suggests noting allergies, sensitivities, the age of occupants and pets when you set up the contract.
By pest
Bed bugs: AgriLife's apartment factsheet suggests bagging loose items in treated rooms, washing and hot-drying clothes, vacuuming furniture and discarding the bag outdoors, emptying nightstand and dresser drawers, and putting food away.
Roaches: clean floors and counters and fix leaks. Empty the cabinets under the sinks if asked.
Fleas: vacuum first and wash pet bedding. Arrange the pets' own treatment for the same time.
Termites: clear access to the slab edge, plumbing closets and attic hatch. Save a few swarmers in a bag, and don't scrape away mud tubes before the inspector has seen them.
Rats and mice: don't sweep up droppings. Texas DSHS gives cleanup steps. Put stored food in sealed containers.
On the day
- Keep pets and children away from the work area.
- Have a note of where and when you've seen the pests.
- Get a written record of what was applied and where.
- Ask when to expect any return visit, and what would call for one.
If you think there's a health problem, seek medical help right away. The National Pesticide Information Center is at 1-800-858-7378.
Got pests in the house right now?
Call and say what you've seen and your ZIP code. You'll be connected with an independent pest control company. Allow a few minutes for the conversation.
Calls answered: Early morning to late evening