Bug control is something every homeowner needs to consider, especially when you have a family. Pests like cockroaches, rodents and termites can cause severe damage to your property and pose health hazards for your loved ones. It’s essential to hire a professional pest control company if you find any signs of infestation in your house. This guide will help you decide when to call an exterminator.
When you see one or two pests
The infestation is likely good if you see one or two pests. You can get rid of them by using traps or sprays. However, if there are still signs of an infestation and no improvement after a few days or weeks, it might be time to call a professional bug control service.
When you can’t locate the source
If you cannot locate the source of your pest problem, you may deal with a colony of pests. This is especially common among ants and cockroaches. If they have established themselves in your home and are thriving, they could be coming from the walls, appliances or even inside your walls!
If you cannot identify where these intruders are hiding out, call in a professional who knows how to find them.
When your home is more than ten years old
When your home is over ten years old, it’s time to call in the exterminators. As homes age, they have a higher likelihood of having pests. Old buildings tend to have cracks and crevices where insects can hide. They also often have rotten wood that insects use as food sources–and if you live in an older house with drywall or other materials that can be eaten by pests (like wood panelling), then you’re especially vulnerable.
When you have an older child or a newborn at home
If you have an older child at home, it’s essential to ensure that the pests in your home aren’t dangerous. The most common type of pest that can pose a threat to children is cockroaches. They can carry diseases such as salmonella and E. coli, so it’s best to get rid of them as soon as possible if they appear in your house.
If you have a newborn baby or toddler living with you, some insects may be more dangerous than others. For example:
- Bed bugs feed on human blood and cause itching on their bite marks.
- Fleas lay eggs in carpets which hatch into larvae that burrow through cloth to human skin, where they feed.
- Ticks attach themselves to animals before moving onto humans when given the opportunity (such as walking through long grass).
- Mosquitoes transmit diseases like malaria when biting people–this happens mainly at night because mosquitoes prefer warm weather conditions.
Signs
If you suspect your home has been infested with pests, taking action as soon as possible is essential. The longer the problem goes untreated, the harder it will be to eradicate. Here are some common signs of a pest infestation:
- Droppings and other evidence (e.g., chewed wires) left by rodents or insects in your home’s walls or attic areas
- Bites and rashes on the skin result from contact with fleas and ticks; bites may also be accompanied by swelling around them.
Things to Consider While Choosing Pest Control Services
- Choose a pest control company that is licensed and insured.
- Find out if the company is certified.
- Look for a company that offers a guarantee.
- Ask about the company’s experience in the industry, including how long they’ve been in business and what kind of projects they’ve completed in this area before (i.e., how many homes have they treated for termites?).
