No one wants unwanted intruders of any kind in their home, but preventing and getting rid of pests can be tricky.
They can scurry fast and be hard to catch, fly around buzzing loudly, they can also leave itchy bites, scratches, painful stings and be generally hazardous to your health.
So when should you call pest control? Read on to find out all about signs of a pest infestation, what situations require the experts and when you’ll need to call out for emergency pest control services…
Pest Infestation Signs to Look Out For
So you may already suspect you have some kind of infestation, but you’re not sure what. But just to make sure you’re aware of common signs, let’s list some things to look out for. Some of this you may have already noticed and some of this sounds obvious, but bear with it.
Signs may vary between the type of pest and severity of the problem but here’s what to generally look for…
1. Visible Pests
An obvious one, but even though you may only notice one ant, or wasp indoors to begin with, it might mean there are more that have nested somewhere in your home. It could be a one off, but it could also be a good reason to start an inspection.
2. Damage to Your Property or Tracks
You might notice little marks or holes in things, initially marking it down to wear and tear. But, it could be a sign of a pest that has been chewing on your belongings.
It could be wires, furniture, or structures, each of these could be clues that a rodent has made a homesomewhere, or is somehow getting in small gaps from time to time.
Be sure to seal these gaps, whether it’s walls, doors, or floorboards, you’d be surprised how small a gap certain creatures like mice can squeeze through, it’s almost as if they don’t have bones! As well as marks and mess, look for smudges, tracks or tiny droppings.
3. Noises and Smells
We’re all used to random noises in the home, whether it’s the TV, fridge, or floorboards creaking. But if you notice an unfamiliar sound that keeps happening, it might be time to investigate.
Listen out for noises in walls or ceilings, such as scratching, scurrying, or even squeaking/buzzing if it’s a rodent, wasp or bee infestation that you suspect.
Similarly, keep your nose poised for unfamiliar and generally not pleasant smells. This could be anything from urine and droppings to the general smell of a large infestation, or even the very foul smell of a dead animal.
So When Should I Call Pest Control?
Whilst you may be able to solve a small problem yourselfusing repellents and things like traps, bigger and more dangerous problems will require expert help. Instances include:
1. Persistent Infestations
If you’ve tried everything yourself, but nothing is working or the problem keeps coming back, it’s best to call a professional who can use their tools, techniquesand knowledge to solve the stubborn problem permanently.
2. Health Risks
Certain pests can pose health risks to humans and pets. They can spread diseases, trigger allergies or asthma attacks, and of course, some can bite, scratch or sting. This becomes a higher risk with larger infestations, one sting can be bad, but being exposed to numerous stings can become serious, especially in cases of allergies.
To prevent this risk, call a professional.
3. It’s Affecting Your Property
Whether it’s property damage or the infestation causing an unsanitary living environment, you want to get rid of pests fast.
Certain pests can cause costly structural damage to your property if they bite through wires, wood beams, and walls. Best case scenario, it’s minor aesthetic damage, but worst case scenario, severe structural damage can happen over a period of time.
Pests are attracted to unsanitary conditions such as rubbish, food debris, and stagnant water, they can then make the environment worse with their droppings, nests, damage, and breeding even more pests. Keep a clean, decluttered environment. If you’re struggling, call a pest control expert to help and offer advice.
What Counts as an Emergency?
Risks have already be mentioned above, but these are probably the top reasons you’ll want to call out a pest control expert ASAP:
1. Bees and Wasps
A beehive or wasp nest on your property can be hard to deal with without a professional. They can easily swarm and sting you, a lot. Especially wasps.
2. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs can spread rapidly and be hard to get rid of, if you’re struggling, call an expert to ensure no stone (or bed in this case) is left unturned and the problem is fully and quickly eradicated.
3. Dead Animals
If you discover a dead animal such as a fox or badger in your garden, it can be quite alarming. Your local council may not be able to offer help. If this is the case, call a pest control expert to come and remove the animal as soon as possible in order to minimise the risk of contracting severe disease or encouraging even more scavenging pests.
Final Thoughts
Knowing when to call pest control services can save you time, money, and stress. So if you have a pest problem, follow these tips and don’t hesitate to give a professional a call.
