Are you a homeowner? If so, then you understand how annoying pests can be. Household pests can include everything from termites to ants to roaches, as well as plenty of other creepy-crawly creatures in between. There’s really nothing worse than knowing your home has been invaded by an infestation of pests of any kind. But how can you be sure that you have an infestation problem? This article takes a look at some of the most common signs that it’s time to call pest control. Keep reading to get the inside scoop.
- Holes In furniture Upholstery
When it comes to identifying a possible pest infestation in your home, one of the most obvious signs is the sudden appearance of holes in your upholstery. These holes can appear anywhere, but you will probably have to inspect your furniture in order to locate possible damage. You’ll need to turn over seat cushions and look for holes on both sides, as well as on the front or back of each piece of furniture.
Keep in mind that holes from pests will likely be very small, thus they can be challenging to locate. And yet it’s important to take a close look so that you can deal with the problem before it gets worse. Along with holes in the upholstery, you might notice bite or scratch marks on the wood that will only get worse over time if you don’t call a pest control professional as soon as possible.
- Pest Droppings
Another common sign that you have a pest problem is when you start to notice droppings. It’s important to understand that you likely won’t just find droppings on the floor. In fact, you might discover dropping almost anywhere, including the kitchen and bathroom counters, in your bedding, and in your closets and cabinets.
- Unpleasant Smells
Next, you might notice unpleasant smells. These unpleasant odors can be caused by a number of things including pest droppings, the bodies of dead pests, and just by the presence of these unwelcome guests in your home. The key is to be sure to call the professionals as soon as possible. Here’s a resource where you can learn more about the signs of termites.
- Dead Pests
Speaking of dead pests, this is another common sign of an infestation. You might be pleased that some of the pests in your home die on their own, but you should also be concerned when you discover dead pests and take immediate action.
- Strange Sounds
It’s also important to listen to strange sounds in your home. That’s because many pests make small sounds that make it easy to know you have an infestation problem and need to schedule an appointment with a pest control service.
A Homeowner’s Guide to Knowing When to Call Pest Control:
There’s nothing fun about discovering a pest infestation in your home. Fortunately, these tips will help you be confident that you should call pest control so that a professional can take care of the problem for you.
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What a Pest Control Professional Does
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| Inspection | The technician looks for pests, nests, entry points, and damage |
| Identification | They name the pest, since each pest needs a different treatment |
| Treatment plan | They explain the method, the products, and the cost |
| Treatment | They apply sprays, baits, or traps in the right places |
| Prevention advice | They tell you how to seal gaps and store food safely |
| Follow-up | They return to check if the pests are gone |
A pest control professional starts with an inspection. They look in the kitchen, bathroom, attic, and basement. They look for droppings, nests, and damage. They look for entry points, like gaps around pipes and windows. They name the pest. Each pest needs a different treatment. Ants need a different plan than termites. Bed bugs need a different plan than cockroaches. The technician then explains the treatment plan. They tell you the method, the products, and the cost. They tell you if you need to leave the house during treatment. Most modern treatments are safe for people and pets once dry. Ask the technician how long to stay away. Ask if children and pets need to be out of the room. The treatment may need more than one visit. Eggs can hatch after the first treatment. A follow-up visit kills the new pests. Ask if follow-up visits are included in the price. A good company gives a written plan and a guarantee. The guarantee says they will come back for free if pests return within a set time. Read it before you sign.
How to Prevent Pests in Your Home
Prevention is cheaper than treatment. Keep food in sealed containers. Clean up crumbs at once. Do not leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight. Take out the trash often. Keep bins closed. Fix leaking taps. Pests need water. A leak under the sink is a water source for them. Seal gaps around pipes, windows, and doors. Use caulk or foam filler. Trim bushes and trees away from the house. Branches touching the roof give pests a path inside. Store firewood away from the house. Wood piles are a home for termites and spiders. Clean the gutters. Clogged gutters hold water and attract pests. Vacuum often. Vacuuming removes crumbs and eggs. Check second-hand furniture before you bring it home. Bed bugs hide in used sofas and mattresses. Check your home each season. Look for new holes, droppings, and smells. Catching a problem early makes it easier and cheaper to fix. If you see one cockroach, there may be more. Cockroaches hide during the day. They come out at night. If you see pests in the day, the infestation may be large. Call a professional. Do not rely on sprays from the shop alone. Shop sprays kill the pests you see. They do not kill the nest. A professional finds the source and treats it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs I need to call pest control?
Holes in furniture upholstery, pest droppings, unpleasant smells, dead pests, and strange sounds are common signs. If you see these signs, call a pest control professional as soon as possible.
How does a pest control professional work?
They inspect your home, identify the pest, explain a treatment plan, apply the treatment, give prevention advice, and follow up to check if the pests are gone.
Is pest control treatment safe for children and pets?
Most modern treatments are safe for people and pets once dry. Ask the technician how long to stay away and if children and pets need to be out of the room during treatment.
How can I prevent pests in my home?
Keep food in sealed containers, clean up crumbs at once, fix leaking taps, seal gaps around pipes and windows, and take out the trash often. Check your home each season for new signs.
Do I need more than one pest control visit?
Sometimes. Eggs can hatch after the first treatment, so a follow-up visit kills the new pests. Ask if follow-up visits are included in the price and if the company gives a guarantee.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general information about pest control. Pests, treatments, and rules differ by place. Always hire a licensed pest control company and follow their safety advice. Keep children and pets away during treatment as advised.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026