FAQ & Tips

Why should I hire a professional pest control operator when I can do it myself?

A professional pest control operator is trained to properly identify the insect species, and understand its biology and habits. This knowledge enables the operator to use the proper pesticide product or products to safely and effectively control the target pest.

Will the chemical used in my house leave an odor?

Liquid chemicals have vastly improved over the years and are now virtually odor free.

Do I have to empty my kitchen cabinets for my kitchen to be serviced for roaches?

No, in most cases. Bait can be applied without removal of cabinet contents. However, heavier infestations may require the cabinets to be emptied.

Do I have to leave my home after a treatment is applied?

Routine pest control services do not require you to leave. Certain pest treatments (ie. flea, bedbug) do require you to leave to provide ample drying and ventilation time.

How do I know if the products that a pest control company is using are safe?

Rid-A-Roach Termite and Pest Control uses only EPA registered products applied in accordance with label directions. If you have specific health concerns, ask us for copies of the label and MSDS to share with your physician.

What are termites?

Termites are wood destroying insects that play an important role in nature; however, it is estimated that they cause 5 Billion dollars of property damage each year.

How do you recognize termites?

In our area, termites swarm in early spring, on warm, sunny days. Termite swarmers look very similar to flying ants. They travel in mud tunnels which are sometimes visible on foundation walls.

What can a homeowner do to prevent termites?

The most important thing is to remove conditions that are conducive to termite survival. Termites love moisture; avoid moisture accumulation around the foundation of your home. Divert water away with properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation. Prevent shrubs, vines and other vegetation from growing over and covering vents. Be sure to remove old form boards, grade stakes, etc., left in place after the building was constructed. Remove old tree stumps and roots around and beneath the building. Most importantly, eliminate any wood contact with the soil. An 18-inch gap between the soil and wood portions of the building is ideal. It doesn’t hurt to routinely inspect the foundation of your home for signs of termite damage.

Does homeowner's insurance cover termite damage?

Termite damage is not covered under homeowner's policies.

What questions should homeowners ask during a professional termite inspection/treatment?

Make sure the pest control company is licensed with the state regulatory agency and bonded. What kind of guarantee is offered? How long will the treatment take? What type of treatment is recommended? What is the cost for the initial treatment and the annual renewals?

Can pests other than termites cause damage?

Yes. Carpenter ants, carpenter bees, powder-post beetles, old wood house borers, and various beetles can damage wood. There are several fungal species associated with excessive moisture conditions that can cause structural damage.

What are bed bugs?

Bed bugs are blood feeding, temporary ectoparasites, meaning they go onto their hosts (humans) only to feed, and then spend the rest of the time in protected hiding places. An adult bedbug is about 1/4 inch long and brown to reddish-brown in color, similar in appreance to a tick. They feed mainly at night, leave painless bites that can leave itchy welts and leave dark fecal spots (partially digested blood) on bedding, mattresses and box springs.

end faq