How Long After The Exterminator Comes? "Learn What to Do Next"

Increased pest activity – This is actually a good sign. As pests come in contact with the treatment, they leave hiding places in search of new shelter.
Dead insects appearing – You may find dead bugs in areas like window sills, near baseboards, or behind furniture. This is normal and means the treatment is working.
Unusual smells – Some sprays may have a mild chemical odor that typically fades within a few hours.

How Long Does It Take for Pest Control to Work?

The timeline depends on the type of pest, severity of the infestation, & method used.

Ants, Roaches, and Spiders

Initial results – 24-48 hours
Full results – 1-2 weeks
Some residual activity is normal during this time.

Bed Bugs

Initial results – Within a few days
Full elimination – 2–3 weeks or multiple treatments
Bed bugs are notoriously tough, follow-up treatments are often needed.

Rodents

Initial results – A few days to a week
Full control – 1-2 weeks with traps or baits
Dead rodents may need to be removed manually.

Fleas and Ticks

Initial results – 1-3 days
Full control – Up to 2-3 weeks
These pests often require both indoor and outdoor treatments.

What You Should Do After the Exterminator Leaves

To get the best results, follow these tips…

Stay out of treated areas for the time recommended by your exterminator (usually 2-4 hours).
Clean only where necessary. Avoid mopping or wiping down treated surfaces unless advised otherwise.
Dispose of dead pests as you find them.
Seal cracks and entry points to prevent re-infestation.
Keep food sealed and maintain a clean environment.

When to Call the Exterminator Again

While many treatments are highly effective, some infestations require more than one visit. Call your pest control provider if…

You still see heavy activity after 10-14 days
You notice new types of pests after treatment
You need a follow-up appointment as part of a multi-step treatment (e.g., bed bugs, termites)

Pest control is a process, not always a one-time fix. Seeing pests right after treatment doesn’t mean it didn’t work, in fact, it’s often the opposite. The key is to follow post-treatment guidelines, stay patient, & communicate with your exterminator if concerns arise.