Pest Control FAQ

Professional guidance for homes and businesses across the North East

This FAQ provides clear, practical information about pest control, safety and what to expect during treatment. If your question isn’t covered below, an inspection allows us to assess your situation and advise accordingly.

Is pest control safe for babies and children?

Safety is always assessed before treatment. In some cases — such as residual spraying or fogging — we may recommend that occupants, including children and pets, leave the treated area for a short period while products dry and settle.

Clear instructions are always provided before and after treatment so you know exactly what to expect.

What happens during a visit?

A typical visit begins with inspection. The technician will:

• Identify the pest species involved

• Assess activity levels and likely access routes

• Determine whether treatment is required

• Provide recommendations for control or proofing

Where appropriate, digital reporting and COSHH information can be supplied for your records.

What products and equipment do you use?

We use professional-grade products supplied by regulated UK distributors. Products are selected based on:

• Pest species

• Environment (domestic or commercial)

• Risk to occupants

• Legal and safety requirements

Treatments are applied in accordance with label instructions and current best practice.

What pests do you cover?

We deal with a wide range of pests including:

• Rats and mice

• Wasps and ants

• Bed bugs and fleas

• Cockroaches and flies

• Moths and silverfish

• Squirrels and pigeons

• Woodworm

For a full breakdown, see our individual pest service pages.

Do you work with both homes and businesses?

Yes. We provide pest control for:

• Domestic households

• Landlords and letting agents

• Food premises

• Retail and hospitality

• Warehouses and industrial sites

• Schools and healthcare settings

Control programmes are adapted to the environment and risk level of the site.

How quickly can you attend?

We operate Monday to Saturday during business hours. Availability depends on current workload and location. Where immediate attendance is not possible, we can provide interim advice until inspection is carried out.

What qualifications do your technicians hold?

Technicians hold recognised industry qualifications, including the RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management as a minimum. Work is carried out in accordance with UK legislation and best practice guidance.

Do I need to leave my property during treatment?

This depends on the treatment method. Many treatments, such as trapping or proofing, do not require you to leave. Where temporary exclusion is advisable, clear guidance will be provided before work begins.

Do I need ongoing monthly treatments?

Not usually. Many pest issues can be resolved through targeted treatment and proofing.

Some pests with complex life cycles, such as bed bugs or fleas, may require follow-up visits. Commercial premises may require ongoing inspection under a pest management contract.

When should I call a professional?

If you notice:

• Droppings

• Gnawing damage

• Nests or nesting material

• Unusual odours

• Repeated sightings

Early inspection helps prevent escalation and identifies the root cause.

Can I use shop-bought pesticides myself?

Some products are available for public purchase, but professional-use products require training and certification. Incorrect use can pose risks to people, pets and the environment, and may not address the underlying cause of infestation.

Are all insects pests?

No. Many insects are beneficial and form part of the local ecosystem. We only treat species that present a genuine health risk, structural concern or significant nuisance.

Can pests affect asthma or allergies?

Certain pests, including cockroaches and bed bugs, can produce allergens that aggravate respiratory conditions. Prompt identification and appropriate treatment can help reduce this risk.

How should I prepare for a bed bug treatment?

Preparation instructions vary depending on treatment type. Typically this may include:

• Bagging and washing bedding at high temperatures

• Vacuuming affected areas

• Reducing clutter around sleeping areas

A full preparation checklist is provided before treatment.

Why do some pests require multiple treatments?

Some species have life stages that are less affected by a single treatment. Follow-up visits may be required to ensure activity is fully resolved.

Do you offer emergency pest control?

Urgent cases are prioritised where possible within operating hours. Contact us directly to discuss availability.

What areas do you cover?

We operate across Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Gateshead and the wider North East. If you are unsure whether we cover your area, please contact us.

How do I book an inspection?

You can:

• Call us on 0191 7166647

• Contact us via the website

We will arrange an appropriate time to inspect and advise.