Before the Exterminator Arrives

Preparation is key. Your exterminator may provide specific pre-treatment instructions.

Common steps to follow…

• Clean Your Home (But Don’t Overdo It)

  • Wipe down counters and sweep floors to reduce crumbs and grease (roach food sources).

  • Empty garbage and remove clutter, especially cardboard and paper.

  • Do not deep clean or mop near baseboards or cracks, this may remove signs of activity or make bait less effective.

• Clear Access to Problem Areas

  • Move furniture or appliances away from walls where roaches have been seen.

  • Clear out cabinets, especially under sinks and in the kitchen.

• Cover or Remove Food and Dishes

  • Store food in sealed containers or remove it temporarily.

  • Remove pet bowls and cover or secure fish tanks.

During the Extermination Process

What happens during the visit depends on the severity of the infestation and the treatment method.

What you can generally expect…

• Visual Inspection
  • The technician will inspect key areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and utility rooms to find signs of infestation — droppings, egg casings, or live roaches.

• Application of Treatments

  • Gel baits – Placed in cracks, crevices, and hidden areas where roaches hide.

  • Sprays – Used along baseboards, under sinks, and in wall voids to kill roaches on contact and leave a residual effect.

  • Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) – Disrupt the life cycle, preventing eggs from maturing.

  • Dusts or powders – May be used in wall voids or behind outlets.

• Safety Precautions

Depending on the chemicals used, you may be asked to…

• • Leave the home for 2 – 4 hours (sometimes longer).

  • Keep pets and children out of treated areas.

  • Avoid cleaning treated surfaces for at least a few days.

After the Extermination

Many people expect instant results, but exterminating roaches is usually a process, not a one-time fix.

• You May See More Roaches at First
  • Don’t panic. Roach activity can increase briefly after treatment as they are flushed out of hiding and come into contact with bait or insecticide.

• Dead Roaches Will Appear
  • You may find dead or dying roaches for several days or weeks. Clean them up promptly but avoid cleaning treated zones too soon.

• Follow-Up Treatments May Be Needed
  • A serious infestation often requires multiple treatments. Follow-up visits help target newly hatched roaches and eliminate any survivors.