A smarter approach to pests
Modern pest control relies on integrated pest management (IPM): identifying the pest correctly, understanding why it's there, removing what attracts it, sealing entry points, and using targeted treatments only where they're needed. That approach is usually more effective and uses less pesticide than spraying on a schedule regardless of what's present.
Common household pests
- Ants come inside for food and water, often after rain or in hot, dry weather. Identifying the species matters, because some are controlled with baits and others need different methods.
- Spiders are mostly harmless and eat other pests, but a few species can bite. Reducing clutter and webs, sealing gaps and controlling the insects spiders feed on reduces their numbers.
- Cockroaches thrive where food, water and shelter are available. Baits, sanitation and sealing cracks are central to control.
- Wasps and yellowjackets build nests under eaves, in walls and in the ground. Nests near doors and play areas are best handled by professionals.
- Silverfish, earwigs and pantry pests often point to moisture or food storage problems.
- Fleas and ticks usually come in on pets.
What a treatment visit includes
1. An inspection to identify the pest, find where it's living and entering, and note conditions that attract it. 2. A plan explaining what will be done and why. 3. Targeted treatment, such as baits placed where ants and cockroaches will find them, crack-and-crevice applications, and exterior barrier treatments where appropriate. 4. Recommendations for sealing, sanitation and moisture control. 5. Information on any products used and any precautions for people and pets. 6. Follow-up if needed.
Safety
Ask what products will be used, where, and what precautions to take. Pesticides should be applied according to their labels. If you have children, pets, fish tanks or anyone with health conditions, tell the technician before they start. Keep children and pets away from treated areas until they're dry or as directed.
Prevention you can do
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, pipes and utility lines.
- Fix leaks and reduce moisture in crawlspaces, basements and under sinks.
- Store food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs and spills.
- Keep garbage and recycling bins clean and closed.
- Trim vegetation away from the house so it doesn't touch walls or the roof.
- Move firewood and debris away from the foundation.
Service plans
Some homeowners choose recurring service, such as quarterly visits, for ongoing prevention. Others prefer to call only when there's a problem. If you sign up for a plan, read what it covers, how often visits happen, how to request extra visits between scheduled ones, and how to cancel.
Questions to ask
- What pest is this, and why is it in my house?
- What will you treat with, and where?
- What precautions should I take for kids and pets?
- What can I do to prevent it coming back?
- If I sign a service plan, what's covered and how do I cancel?
When to call a professional
Call for help when you can't identify the pest, when do-it-yourself measures haven't worked within a few weeks, when the pest can sting, bite or damage the structure, or when you see signs of a large infestation, such as daytime cockroaches or large numbers of ants inside. Early identification usually leads to a smaller, more targeted treatment.