How to Prepare for an Exterminator

Do a few things ahead of time to get the most bang for your buck

Girlsr olling up rug on wood floor
Photo: NickyLloyd / Getty Images
Girlsr olling up rug on wood floor
Photo: NickyLloyd / Getty Images
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Geo Icon

If you’ve stumbled upon some uninvited guests living in your home, it could be time to call in a pest control company. If you declutter and protect valuables before your appointment, the visit will go faster and be more effective. Here are nine steps you can take to prepare for an exterminator service. 

1. Check for Signs of an Infestation

The first thing you need to do is try to figure out what type of pest you are dealing with and if you have an infestation. If you notice droppings, smell odd odors, see damage to fabric such as curtains, hear noises in walls and floors, or notice track marks, these are telltale signs of pests in your house. Of course, seeing rodents such as mice and bugs (alive or dead) is a major sign you have a pest problem and need to call a professional exterminator near you

You can also be invaded by other types of wildlife, such as raccoons, squirrels, or bats. For these situations, you will need to hire an animal control service near you to remove them. 

Figuring out the type of pests and how severe the infestation is can help you provide adequate information to the exterminator so they can treat the problem accordingly.

2. Document the Locations of Pests

Make note of all the places you notice signs of pests. Pictures can help the exterminator make a correct identification and locate the source more easily, so snap photos of things like droppings, gnaw marks, and even the insects or critters themselves.

3. Get Rid of the Clutter

To help the exterminator move easily through your space and more effectively target the source of your pests, clear clutter from your home and garage as much as possible in advance. If you plan on donating anything, be sure to check the items over carefully to make sure you aren’t inadvertently spreading pests.

 4. Stash Your Valuable Belongings

You don’t want to risk having your prized possessions get sprayed with chemicals, especially if they’re difficult to launder. So, ensure you put away items such as clothing and accessories, linens, toiletries, pet dishes and toys, and children's toys. If you don’t have an out-of-the-way area where you can put them, place them in covered plastic tubs to protect them.

5. Properly Store Food Items

You also need to protect all food items to avoid exposure to chemicals. Put fruit, snacks, and anything else that’s out on the countertop into cabinets or covered plastic containers. Remove small appliances, too, and store them in cabinets or another out-of-the-way area.

When your pest control specialist arrives, ask them if the kitchen is sufficiently prepared or if there’s anything else you need to do to protect your family from chemicals.

6. Cover Furniture in Plastic

In some cases, you may need to cover beds, tables, couches, and other furniture and items in plastic to protect them. Check with the exterminator to find out what type of treatment will be used and if this step is necessary.

7. Clean Counters and Floors

Wipe counters clean and ensure they are cleared off. Vacuum and mop floors to remove dust and debris so the treatment is easier to apply. Vacuuming also lifts and fluffs carpet, which allows treatments such as insecticides to penetrate deeper into the fibers.

Be sure to snap photos before cleaning up any evidence of your pest problem. If there are droppings or there’s an area of your home that’s extensively damaged by pests, cleaning it up yourself could actually pose a health risk. In this case, talk to your exterminator about the best plan of action.

8. Relocate Your Houseplants

Houseplants are susceptible to the chemicals used by exterminators, too, so you may need to move or cover them before your appointment. But discuss this with your exterminator ahead of time, especially if the plant is near an area where you’ve seen evidence of pests.

9. Keep Pets and Children Safe

If you have pets or kids in the home, let the exterminator know ahead of time and discuss the safest possible treatment options. On the day of service, take pets and children out of the home or make sure they are in a safe area where they will not be exposed to hazardous chemicals.

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
The homeowners guide to pest exterminators
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Infestation of basement with spiders
May 7, 2024
May 7, 2024
Professional spider exterminator costs vary depending on the infestation size, visit frequency, and methods. Use this guide to budget for speedy spider removal.
A family of four grilling their backyard
May 30, 2024
May 30, 2024
The cost of mosquito control depends on several factors, including property size and treatment type. Learn the costs involved to budget for this service.
Spotted lanternfly on maple tree
May 23, 2024
May 23, 2024
The invasive spotted lanternfly makes a mess and causes serious damage to the environment. So, how much does spotted lanternfly treatment cost?
Termites eating wood board
Oct 28, 2024
Oct 28, 2024
Does spot treatment work on drywood termites? These subterranean pests cause serious damage to your home, but luckily, there are several effective treatment options.
close up of carpenter ant
May 13, 2024
May 13, 2024
Learn the most common signs of carpenter ants in the house and what steps to take next in our detailed guide.
Cat watching mouse hole
Aug 21, 2024
Aug 21, 2024
If you see a mouse hole in the wall, it’s time to seal your house from mice. Our guide will show you how to safely and humanely seal a house from mice.