How to get the best results from your pest control company
TL;DR: Getting the best results from your pest control company means clear communication, preparation before their visit, and following aftercare advice. Tell them about your problem upfront, clear clutter beforehand, and avoid treating the areas they’ve sprayed for at least 48 hours. Regular maintenance visits help prevent future infestations.
Introduction
Finding the right pest control company in the UK is one thing. Getting excellent results from them is another. Many people hire professional pest controllers but don’t get the outcomes they expect. This often isn’t the pest controller’s fault. It’s usually because homeowners aren’t aware of what they can do to help. Your pest control company has the expertise and chemicals, but you have the knowledge of your property. When you work together, you’ll eliminate pests faster and more effectively. Let’s explore how to get the best results from your pest control service.
What should you tell your pest control company before they arrive?
Give them detailed information about the problem. Tell them when you first noticed the pests, where you’ve seen them most, and what you’ve tried already. This helps them choose the right treatment approach.
Be honest about the extent of your infestation. If you’ve got mice in your loft and under the kitchen floorboards, say so. Mention any pets or children in your home, as this affects which products they can safely use. Let them know about any previous treatments you’ve had. If another company treated your home six months ago, your pest controller needs to know what they used.
How can you prepare your home for their visit?
Clear clutter and create access to problem areas. Remove items from under sinks, move furniture slightly away from walls, and tidy kitchen worktops. Pest controllers need to inspect every corner thoroughly and apply treatments where pests hide.
Hoover your floors and remove pet food bowls during treatment. Close internal doors so they can treat specific rooms properly. If you’ve got a loft infestation, make sure it’s accessible. Remove any personal items from affected areas that you don’t want them handling. In kitchens, move your food into sealed containers and store dishes away. These simple steps mean your pest controller can work faster and more effectively.
What should you do while they’re treating your home?
Stay out of treated areas during the visit. Most treatments take 30 to 90 minutes depending on your property size. Keep pets and children away from the areas being treated.
Ask your pest controller questions whilst they’re working. They’ll explain what they’re doing and why. This helps you understand the treatment plan. They might point out entry points you didn’t notice. They’ll probably recommend sealing gaps around pipes or windows. Take notes about their advice or ask if they provide written instructions. Don’t assume you know what to do. Every pest problem is slightly different, and your specific situation might need particular aftercare steps.
Why is following aftercare advice so important?
Your behaviour after treatment directly affects success rates. Don’t clean treated surfaces for at least 48 hours. Chemicals need time to work. Vacuuming or wiping down surfaces removes the treatment before it’s done its job.
Keep pets away from treated areas for the time your pest controller recommends. Some products need longer settling periods than others. Don’t rearrange furniture or reorganise cupboards immediately. Leave everything as it was so the treatment can work on any remaining pests. Your pest controller might recommend follow-up visits. These are worth doing. A second treatment 2 weeks later catches any pests that survived or hatched after the first application.
Should you book regular maintenance visits?
Regular pest prevention is cheaper than dealing with infestations. Many pest control companies offer quarterly or bi-annual visits. These catch problems early when they’re easiest to treat. You’ll pay roughly £150 to £300 per visit depending on your location and property size. Prevention always costs less than eradication once pests have taken hold.
Conclusion
Getting the best results from your pest control company comes down to teamwork. Share all relevant information, prepare your home properly, and follow their aftercare instructions carefully. Don’t skip follow-up treatments if they recommend them. Regular maintenance visits prevent future problems. Your pest controller brings expertise and chemicals, but you bring knowledge of your home. Together, you’ll eliminate pests quickly and keep them away. Find a pest control company near you by searching our free UK directory. Many offer free consultations and quotes without any obligation.
FAQ
What’s the best time to book a pest control visit?
Book as soon as you spot a problem. The longer you wait, the worse the infestation becomes. Early treatment is always easier and cheaper than waiting.
Can I stay in my house during treatment?
Most pest control treatments are safe once you’re out of the immediate area being sprayed. Ask your pest controller specifically about your situation before they arrive.
How long before I see results?
Most infestations show significant improvement within 2 to 7 days. Complete eradication might take 2 to 3 weeks, especially for serious problems.
What if the pests come back?
Good pest control companies offer guarantees. If pests return within the guarantee period, they’ll retreat your home at no extra cost. Always ask about their guarantee.
How much does pest control cost in the UK?
Costs vary widely. Simple treatments start around £100 to £150. Larger properties or serious infestations might cost £300 to £500 or more.