Preparation For Pest Control Treatment: What To Expect With An Orkin Pro

Well, the worst has happened… you’ve found unwanted pests in or around your home. And you probably feel uneasy about it. How could you not? This uncertainty could affect your family’s health and safety, the condition of your home and your bank account. Don’t worry. We can help you breathe a sigh of relief: Orkin Canada has the expertise, knowledge and tools to get those pests out.

When you’re dealing with rodents, bed bugs, spiders, cockroaches, etc., we know exactly how to handle any species of pest. Plus, our methods are the safest available on the market. They’re effective and completely backed by science. Whether it’s moisture meters, bait stations, treatments or pheromone traps, we only use the treatments your home needs.

Trust us when we say we’re the best in pests.

From our initial assessment to the day of service, we want you to have the information you need to relax by explaining how your Orkin Canada treatment is as effective as possible. We provide all the details you need to prepare for a pest control treatment. Plus, any key considerations for our pest treatment services, so you know exactly what to expect.* 

*Remember that every situation is different, so exact details are pest and situation dependent. 

First Things First: Your Safety And Well-Being

If pest control treatments are new to you, you’re likely looking for answers. And you’ve come to the right place. Here are the two most common questions our Orkin Pros get asked:

1. Can you stay inside your home? 
2. How safe are our treatments?
   

Depending on the pest treatment service, the size of the pest issue and factoring in a variety of other considerations, we typically recommend that all family members (pets included) vacate the home for a specific period of time. The amount of time depends on the products used, the type of service required and the individuals living within the home. If anyone is pregnant, has a respiratory problem or is immunocompromised, we do recommend vacating for an extended period of time to ensure their safety.

At Orkin, keeping you safe and healthy is our top priority when we’re treating your home. No ifs, ands or buts about it. 

Preparation For Pest Control Treatment: General Tips

Depending on the species of pest, the area where it/they may be harbouring (inside vs. outside) and how long the pest activity has occurred, pest treatment services can differ. In fact, exact treatment details and protocols are pest and situation dependent. However, there are a few general tasks for how to prepare your home for pest control: 

Make your space accessible.

If your pests can get in and out, your Orkin Pro will need to, too. Depending on the pest, an Orkin Pro may need to inspect or treat any space, so they’ll need quick access. We recommend ensuring these areas are clear of things like heavy furniture. There are also times when our Orkin Pros may not go into spaces like attics for safety reasons. 

Tidy up.

Preparing for a pest control treatment in your home usually requires a little tidying up. If you’re dealing with carpet beetles, vacuuming your carpets and rugs is a good first step. Some solutions, like cockroach pest treatment, would require you to clear all top shelves and floors of closets and ensure all baseboards are clear. But your Orkin Pro will recommend all of the necessary steps.

Have little ones in your home? Be sure to put away toys and blankets, and cover infant cribs. Because there are so many different types of pests and different pest solutions, your Orkin Pro will provide you with your pest control prep sheet that details all the steps to ensure an effective visit. These pre-treatment prep sheets are given to our customers after the initial assessment is completed and before a treatment is applied. Your Orkin Pro will also let you know which treatment solutions are being applied to your property before starting a treatment program. 

Take care of your pets.

We understand that these four-legged family members are an important part of your household and that their health and well-being are important to you. Rest assured, they are to us, too. Regarding pest control treatment services, dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, etc., can safely be removed and taken with you. If you have fish tanks or aquariums, they can remain in place if the filtration and aeration systems are turned off and the tank is adequately covered. The filtration and aeration equipment can be turned back on 6 hours after the treatment. No matter what type of pet you own, be sure to cover any plants, dishes, litter boxes and food items with plastic. 

In terms of pet-friendly pest control and if our pest control is safe for pets – Orkin uses the safest methods available. Our treatments for household insects, for example, are designed to be applied at low concentrations, meaning they are effective for pests but pose no harm to people or pets. However, pets do need to be away from treated surfaces until they are dry.

Preparing For Pest Control Treatment: The Initial Assessment

An Orkin Pro will perform a thorough inspection of the property (inside and out) to identify vulnerable areas and potential hotspots that may be attracting pests. They’ll also provide practical tips on preventing future infestations, such as sealing up any gaps or cracks they spot along the way.

During our initial assessment, your Orkin Pro will ask questions, including: 

• When did the pest issue start? 
• Where are you seeing pest activity? 
• Do you have pets within the home? 

This assessment also gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you might have. Whether you’re curious about pest control treatment costs, pest treatment services or have safety concerns, your Orkin Pro is happy to answer any questions you might have. With years of hands-on experience, they have seen it all and are dedicated to solving any pest problem. 

What To Expect During Pest Control Treatment

No two homes are the same, and the same is true regarding pest problems. Every pest situation is unique – which means your pest treatment service might not be the same as your neighbour, friend or coworker. At Orkin, we don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach – we create a tailored treatment plan using the best tools in the business, all backed by science. Our Orkin Pros have the expertise, award-winning training and real-life experience to solve your unique pest issue.

On the day of treatment, the pest control methods we use can differ depending on the type of pest you’ve encountered, the size of the infestation and any other conditions that may allow pest populations to thrive. 

Did you know? A majority of our pest control methods are done externally. This is one of the most effective ways to ensure pests don’t make your house their home. However, if indoor pest activity is found (like rodents or cockroaches), our Orkin Pros will also integrate internal pest control methods like baiting stations or dusting in certain areas within the home (excluding the kitchen or food areas, depending on pest and treatment type). External baiting stations are also strategically and discreetly placed within bushes or out of the way, so they’re out of sight and out of mind, blending perfectly into the outdoor surroundings.

No matter what your pest treatment services entail, know that your Orkin Pro will use PPE and ensure all safety protocols are followed. From what types of products they used to what the expected outcomes are, your Orkin Pro will explain the entire treatment process from start to finish in a clear and straightforward manner. 

Depending on the pest and activity level, your Orkin Pro may provide you with some next steps or set up a follow-up appointment to monitor any pest activity. 

What To Expect After Treatment

Once your pest treatment service is done, your Orkin Pro will inform you when it’s safe to clear or wipe down treated areas, when it’s okay to move back furniture and how to effectively monitor your home for any signs of pest activity. 

*After treatment, you may see an increase in pest activity. This doesn’t mean the treatment wasn’t effective; it means that it’s working adequately to move these pests out.  

Your Orkin Pro will provide you with documentation about what was done, including the type of pest control treatment, areas that were treated and any follow-ups that are needed. In addition to this, you can also receive a Safety Data Sheet that has all of the product information and even some helpful tips and checklists to ensure these pests will no longer be a problem. When you trust an Orkin Pro to handle the job, you get years of expert knowledge literally at your fingertips. 

The bottom line is that after an Orkin pest control treatment, you can expect to feel relieved, content and well taken care of.  

What Happens If Pests Return?

No one wants pests to return, but if that should happen – know that resolving your pest problem is our number-one priority. If a retreatment is needed, we’ll provide immediate services at no extra cost. We are committed to helping our customers, exceeding their expectations and being a pest control provider they can truly trust. That’s why we offer a 100% Satisfaction or Money Back Guarantee. 

FAQs

Is it safe for me and my cat to be in our apartment when pest control comes? 

Depending on your treatment, your Orkin Pro may recommend taking your cat with you when you vacate the home. This isn’t required for solutions like baiting treatments, however. 

Are pest control chemicals harmful to pets? 

Some of the pesticides used are designed to be applied at low concentrations and pose no threat to pets or people when used according to label instructions. However, we recommend that pets be away from treated surfaces until they are dry. Your Orkin Pro will always perform the pest control treatment in the safest manner possible. We’re pet people, too. 

How long after pest control can I go inside?

Depending on the pest treatment service, the size of the pest issue and factoring in a variety of other considerations, we typically recommend that all family members (pets included) vacate the home for anywhere between 4-6 hours, although this time range is subject to change depending on the products used, type of service and persons living within the home. 

How much does pest control cost? 

Every pest control problem is unique, so we don’t have a standard cost. After our thorough assessment, we create a tailored implementation and monitoring plan that works to effectively get rid of pests inside and outside your home. 

What is integrated pest control? 

Integrated pest control is Orkin Canada’s multi-step service that integrates the most advanced pest control technology and industry knowledge available. Our customized plans are designed to completely remove the pest problem and protect your home from future pests. Through our assessment, implementation and monitoring, our integrated pest control focuses on proactive prevention while minimizing the use of chemical treatments. 

Have more questions about pest control? Here are some additional frequently asked pest control questions.

Request A Free Home Estimate For Pest Control

If you have a pest issue on your hands, remember that when it comes to pests, no one’s better than an Orkin Pro. Orkin Canada has over 120 years of experience, expert knowledge, award-winning training and tools that are backed by science. Request a free home estimate today.