Pest control visits should be quick, effective, and hassle-free. But for that to happen, a little preparation goes a long way. If a home isn’t ready, the treatment might not work as well, which means more visits, more frustration, and—worst of all—more pests. Whether you’re a resident or a property manager, here’s exactly what to do before, during, and after pest control services to get the best results.
Preparing Before the Pest Control Visit
Declutter the Trouble Spots
Pests love tight, hidden spaces. That’s also where pest control pros need to treat. If an apartment is packed with clutter, it’s harder to reach the areas that need attention. Move furniture away from walls, especially in rooms where pests have been spotted.
In bedrooms, pull beds a few inches away from walls and remove anything stored underneath. Closets should be organized with items off the floor. In living areas, move couches and chairs if needed.
For kitchens and bathrooms, clear out cabinets under sinks, since pests like roaches and ants often live near plumbing. If the treatment includes cabinets, remove food, dishes, and utensils.
Deep Clean to Cut Off Food Sources
Pests don’t just show up for shelter—they stay for food. Cleaning up crumbs, spills, and trash helps remove their food supply. Wipe down counters, sweep floors, and mop where necessary.
Dirty dishes in the sink can be a problem, especially if the issue involves ants, cockroaches, or fruit flies. Before treatment, wash dishes and put them away. Any open food should be stored in sealed containers. Pet food should also be put away when possible.
Take out the trash, especially if it contains food waste. If there’s a recycling bin with sticky soda cans or food containers, rinse those out.
If the problem is in the pantry, check for expired food, especially grains and cereals, and wipe down shelves. If there are signs of pantry pests like weevils or moths, store food in airtight containers.
Secure Pets and Personal Items
Pets should be kept away from treated areas. If possible, take them outside or keep them in another room during the service.
Fish tanks need to be covered, and the air pump should be turned off temporarily. Pet bedding, food bowls, and chew toys should be stored away. If treatment includes outdoor areas, check if pet waste needs to be removed beforehand.
The same applies to baby items—bottles, pacifiers, toys, and anything that might go in a child’s mouth should be put away or washed after treatment.
Plan for Possible Temporary Relocation
Most treatments allow residents to stay home, but some require leaving for a few hours. If the treatment involves stronger chemicals or fumigation, the technician will give specific instructions.
People with asthma, allergies, or chemical sensitivities should check if extra precautions are needed. If leaving is required, make arrangements for pets and anyone sensitive to pesticides.
What to Do During the Pest Control Visit
Provide Access to Key Areas
Make sure the technician can reach every area that needs treatment. If doors or gates are locked, unlock them ahead of time.
If there are specific pest problems, let the technician know. Not all infestations are the same, and details like where pests have been seen, what kind of droppings have been found, or when activity is worst can help determine the best treatment approach.
Ask Questions If Needed
If there are concerns about safety, effectiveness, or how long the treatment takes to work, this is the time to ask.
Some treatments take longer to show results than others. Baits and slow-acting products might not kill pests immediately, but they work over time to eliminate the entire population. Understanding how the treatment works helps set the right expectations.
Steps to Take After the Treatment
Let the Treatment Do Its Job
It’s normal to see more pests right after a treatment. That doesn’t mean it didn’t work—it often means the pests are being forced out of hiding.
Avoid cleaning treated areas too soon. Sweeping, mopping, or wiping down surfaces right after a service can remove the treatment before it has a chance to work. If cleaning is necessary, follow any instructions given by the technician.
If bait stations or traps were placed, don’t move them. They were positioned strategically to target pest activity, and moving them can reduce their effectiveness.
Check for Entry Points and Fix Them
Many pest problems start because of entry points. Small gaps around doors, windows, and pipes give bugs and rodents an easy way in. If the pest control tech pointed out problem areas, take steps to seal them up.
Use caulk to close gaps, install door sweeps, and patch holes in walls. If pests are entering through drains, drain covers or traps might help.
For outdoor areas, keep bushes and trees trimmed away from buildings. Overgrown vegetation can provide a bridge for pests to get inside.
Follow Any Special Instructions
Some treatments require follow-up steps, like ventilating the area, keeping pets away from treated spots, or avoiding certain activities. If foggers or sprays were used, staying out of the treated rooms for the recommended time is important.
If pesticides were applied outdoors, watering or cleaning too soon can wash them away. Always follow the technician’s recommendations to get the best results.
Keep Up with Preventative Measures
Even the best treatment won’t work if pests find food, water, and shelter again. Keeping things clean, fixing leaks, and reducing clutter make a huge difference.
For ongoing pest issues, regular inspections help catch problems early. If signs of pests return, report them before they become a bigger problem.
Tips for Property Managers to Ensure Effective Pest Control
Provide Residents with a Prep Checklist
One unprepared unit can make a treatment less effective for the entire building. Property managers should give clear instructions on how to prepare before pest control visits.
Address Maintenance Issues Quickly
Leaks, gaps, and structural issues can make pest problems worse. If a technician points out areas that need repairs, handling them quickly can prevent future infestations.
Simple fixes like sealing cracks, fixing leaky pipes, and keeping outdoor trash areas clean help keep pests under control long-term.
Keep Residents Informed About Follow-Up Treatments
Some treatments require multiple visits. Let residents know what to expect and remind them to keep up with preventative steps between visits.
Pest control is a shared effort. If residents prepare properly and property managers stay on top of maintenance, treatments work faster and last longer.
When everyone takes the right steps before, during, and after a pest control service, getting rid of pests is much easier. Proper preparation means faster results, fewer treatments, and a healthier, pest-free home. The effort put in now saves a lot of frustration down the road.
