Is pest control safe for my pets? +
Professional pest controllers take pet safety seriously. Rodenticide bait stations are tamper-resistant and designed so that cats and dogs cannot access the poison inside. For spray treatments such as flea or cockroach control, your pest controller will advise you to remove pets from the treated area until the product has dried — typically two to four hours. Fish tanks should be covered during any spray treatment, as fish are highly sensitive to insecticides.
Do landlords have to pay for pest control in Canterbury? +
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structure of the property, which includes blocking pest entry points such as gaps around pipes and damaged air bricks. If a pest infestation is caused by structural defects, the landlord must arrange and pay for treatment. If the tenant has caused the infestation through poor hygiene or waste management, the cost may fall to the tenant.
Will the pest controller need to visit more than once? +
Most pest treatments require at least two visits. The first visit involves a survey, identification of the pest species, and initial treatment. Follow-up visits — typically one to three weeks later — check whether the treatment has worked, replenish bait stations if needed, and carry out proofing to prevent re-infestation. Wasp nest treatment is the exception, as a single visit is usually sufficient.
Is a wasp nest near my front door dangerous? +
Yes — a wasp nest near a frequently used entrance is a genuine safety risk, particularly for children, elderly people and anyone with a wasp sting allergy. Wasps become aggressive when they feel their nest is threatened, and multiple stings can cause anaphylactic shock in allergic individuals. Do not attempt to block the nest entrance or spray it with household products. Call a pest controller for safe removal.
What pests are most common in Canterbury? +
The most common pest callouts in Canterbury follow a seasonal pattern: rats and mice peak in autumn and winter as they seek warmth and food indoors; wasp nests are treated mainly between June and September; bed bugs occur year-round but spike in summer with increased travel; and ant infestations are most common in spring and early summer. Cockroaches are less seasonal and are typically found in older properties or commercial kitchens.
How long does a wasp nest take to die after treatment? +
After a pest controller treats a wasp nest, the colony will typically die within 24 to 48 hours. You may notice increased wasp activity around the nest entrance immediately after treatment — this is normal as returning wasps carry the insecticide inside. Keep windows closed and avoid approaching the nest during this period. The nest does not need to be physically removed once treated.