Ant Pest Control

Ants are small but disruptive—spoiling food, trailing through kitchens and alarming customers. Pest Shield provides professional ant pest control across Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham and Gateshead, using safe, targeted methods that remove the colony rather than just the visible trail.

Common ant problems we treat
The black garden ant (Lasius niger) is the usual culprit in homes and shops from spring onwards. You may also see flying ants during nuptial flights (typically July/August). In heated buildings—especially hospitals, care settings and food premises—pharaoh ants (Monomorium pharaonis) can establish multiple satellite nests; these require a different approach to avoid scattering the colony.

Our approach (identify → treat → proof → monitor)
A technician confirms the species and maps trails, entry points and food sources. For black garden ants we prioritise non-repellent treatments and professional baits placed on active trails so workers carry the active ingredient back to the nest. Outdoors, we may use carefully targeted residuals at ingress points; we avoid broadcast spraying. For pharaoh ants we do not use repellent sprays or powders—these split colonies (budding) and make the problem worse. Instead, we use IGR gel baits in a structured programme that collapses the colony over follow-up visits. You’ll receive a clear report with photos, COSHH and simple housekeeping steps to prevent a return.

For food businesses & landlords
We work around trading hours and hygiene rules, placing insect monitoring points and bait stations where they won’t contaminate product or obstruct cleaning. Documentation includes a site plan, materials used, batch numbers and service frequency to satisfy EHO and audit requirements. For multi-site operators we can align callouts and reporting to your compliance schedule.

What to do before and after treatment
Please pause DIY sprays and powders for at least 7–10 days before we arrive—repellents can block bait uptake. After treatment, keep surfaces dry until we confirm it’s safe to clean, then follow our guidance: wipe sugary residues, store food in sealed containers, and maintain regular waste removal. Pets and children should be kept away from treatment areas until products are dry or bait stations are placed.

Finding and fixing the cause
We’ll point out entry routes (gaps at pipe penetrations, door thresholds, weep holes) and advise on sealing. Outside, trim vegetation touching walls, fix dripping taps, and manage bin areas—simple changes that cut off trails and moisture sources ants rely on.

How many visits?
Black garden ant jobs are often resolved in 1–2 visits with a later check. Pharaoh ant programmes usually need several visits to ensure all satellite nests are eliminated. We’ll be transparent about cost and timescales before work begins.

Why choose Pest Shield
Local North East technicians, evidence-led treatments, and clear communication. We use the right method for the species, so you don’t get short-lived results or colony scatter. Every visit ends with a digital report and practical prevention tips tailored to your site.

Areas we cover
Across the North East: Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Gateshead and nearby towns including South Shields, Washington, Jarrow, Hebburn, North Shields, Tynemouth, Whitley Bay, Wallsend, Chester-le-Street, Seaham and Peterlee.

Get a free quote
Send a brief description (and photos if you have them). We’ll confirm the species and recommend the safest, most effective plan.