Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we offer both one-time treatments and recurring pest control plans. While a one-time service can be effective for addressing an immediate issue, we typically recommend recurring treatments for long-term protection. Most pests are persistent and tend to return without ongoing prevention. Our recurring plans are designed to keep your home protected year-round and stop infestations before they start!

Yes. While our fertilization, weed control, and disease prevention treatments will significantly improve your lawn’s overall health and appearance, regular mowing and watering - as well as proper drainage - are essential to maximize the benefits. Mowing helps keep your lawn at an optimal height, and consistent watering ensures your grass gets the moisture it needs to thrive. Drainage in your yard is also important as poor drainage can cause turf diseases. All this to say, our lawn care service should be part of your lawn regimen - but not the only thing!

Hulett's preventive pest control approach focuses on three areas: excluding pests from entering the home, removing conditions that attract them, and making the property's immediate environment inhospitable to pests. Treatments are applied to the exterior perimeter, targeting pest activity at its source before it reaches the interior.

Heat treatments are an effective and eco-friendly method for eliminating bed bugs, and they offer several benefits over traditional chemical treatments. Here’s why heat treatment can be a great choice for bed bug eradication:

• Comprehensive: Heat can penetrate deep into furniture, walls, and floors, making it effective for treating areas that might be missed by chemical treatments.
• No chemicals: Ideal for those who want to avoid chemical exposure or have sensitivities to chemicals.
• Single treatment: Often requires only one treatment, and it’s usually effective in eradicating the entire infestation, including eggs.

Light rain won't affect the treatment once it's dried. However, heavy rain may require rescheduling to ensure effectiveness.

Customers on a Hulett termite plan receive free re-treatments if termites return between services. Termite damage is not covered by standard homeowner's insurance, which makes ongoing preventive treatment an important consideration for South Florida homeowners. Contact Hulett for details on current plan terms.

Signs include high energy bills, uneven indoor temperatures, drafts, or evidence of pests, mold, or moisture in your attic or crawl space.

Yes! Our pest control services are backed by a satisfaction guarantee. If pests come back between scheduled visits—or if a problem doesn’t improve after treatment—we’ll come back out and retreat at no extra cost. 

Yes, we treat both inside and outside your home. Typically, we start with an interior treatment to address any existing pest activity indoors. Once things are under control, we focus on regular perimeter treatments around the exterior of your home to keep bugs from getting back inside. If you ever notice activity indoors again, we’re happy to treat the inside as needed—but the goal of our recurring service is to stop pests before they ever make it in!

Our lawn care services are focused on improving the health of your lawn rather than just its appearance. We offer recurring services like fertilization, weed control, and disease prevention to promote a healthy, vibrant lawn throughout the year. However, we do not provide mowing services as part of our offerings. Our goal is to ensure your lawn is strong, resilient, and well-nourished.

Hulett's Healthy Home Service is an exterior-focused preventive pest control program. Because pests live and breed outside, treating the perimeter of the home stops activity at the source and reduces the likelihood of pests entering indoors. Customers are not required to be home during service. If pests return between treatments, Hulett will re-treat at no additional charge.

Yes, of course! Your and your family's well-being is our top priority. We use products and application methods designed to be effective and produce results, while also reducing risk to humans, pets, and the environment when used as directed. Our technicians are trained to apply treatments with care and responsibility.

No treatment can eliminate 100% of mosquitoes, but our program dramatically reduces their population and activity around your home, making your outdoor spaces much more enjoyable.

Drywood termites:

• Do not require ground contact or moisture
• Live entirely within wood — structural timber or furniture
• Smaller colonies than subterranean termites
• Swarm generally after sunset, May through November
• Swarmers are typically brownish

Subterranean termites:

• Require ground contact or a secondary moisture source
• Live in underground colonies and travel to wood to feed
• Swarm during the day, typically spring and summer, often after heavy rain
• Swarmers are typically small and dark

Treatment methods differ by species. A professional inspection is needed to identify which type is present.

Absolutely. Damaged or missing insulation can allow pests to nest and move freely. We use pest-resistant materials and seal gaps during installation to help keep critters out.

Yes—removing standing water (like birdbaths, clogged gutters, or unused containers), trimming overgrown shrubs, and keeping your lawn well-maintained all help reduce mosquito breeding areas.

If you own a home, especially in an area with high pest activity, professional pest control is a smart investment. Even if you don’t see bugs regularly, pests often hide and breed in hard-to-reach places. A recurring pest control plan acts like insurance: it helps prevent issues before they start, and if a problem ever does pop up, you’ve got a pro ready to handle it right away. When you pay for professional pest control, you are truly paying for peace of mind.

Yes, we offer flexible scheduling, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends, to minimize disruption to your operations.

Results vary depending on the pest and the treatment method used. In most cases, results are visible quickly. An ongoing service agreement provides continued prevention, not just initial control. If pests return between scheduled visits, Hulett will re-treat at no additional charge.

While DIY rodent control products are available, they are often ineffective for large infestations or in cases where rodents have found safe harborage areas within your home. Professional rodent control is more comprehensive, as it includes inspection, exclusion, and long-term monitoring to prevent future infestations.

Pool areas are common mosquito breeding spots. Yes, professional treatments are much more effective in these areas than DIY solutions, which typically only last 1-2 days.

A termite swarm occurs when an established colony releases winged reproductive termites to start new colonies. Subterranean termites typically swarm during the day; drywood termites typically swarm at night.

Swarmers are a sign of an active termite colony nearby or within the structure. If you observe a swarm, contact Hulett to schedule an inspection.

Yes, we use safe, non-toxic, and industry-approved materials that are effective and environmentally responsible.

No, our technicians can treat your property while you're away. We'll coordinate timing that works for your schedule.

Pricing for pest control varies based on several factors, including the plan you choose, the size of your home, and the type of infestation (if any). Since every situation is unique, we provide custom quotes tailored to your needs. Just give us a call, and we’ll be happy to discuss your options and provide a free quote.

Yes. You’ll receive detailed reports after each visit, including findings, treatments performed, pest activity levels, and recommendations for prevention.

Pest control pricing varies based on several factors:

• Type of pest
• Size of the home and property
• Extent of the infestation
• Treatment frequency (monthly plans typically cost more than quarterly plans)

Hulett offers free, no-obligation inspections to assess your situation and recommend a program. Contact Hulett to schedule one.

To prevent future rodent infestations, consider the following tips:

• Seal entry points: Ensure windows, doors, vents, and foundations are secure.
• Remove food sources: Store food in airtight containers and dispose of trash regularly.
• Keep the environment clean: Clean up crumbs, spills, and pet food promptly.
• Trim trees and shrubs: Rodents often use branches to access roofs and attics, so keep trees trimmed away from the home.

This is a valid concern. While some treatments can impact beneficial insects, we offer eco-friendly options that minimize harm to pollinators and other beneficial species.

Yes. Termites forage continuously for new food sources. A standard residential lot in South Florida can support three to four active subterranean termite colonies simultaneously, each potentially containing up to a million individual termites. Because termites often feed inside wood without visible surface signs, an infestation can be well established before it is detected. Routine inspections are the most reliable way to catch activity early.

Yes! Proper insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures, which can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.

Re-entry times vary by product type and your specific landscape. We'll provide specific guidance based on the treatment used - typically it's safe once surfaces are dry, but we'll give you exact timing.

We treat a wide range of common household pests, including ants, spiders, cockroaches, silverfish, millipedes, crickets, earwigs, mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, rodents, bed bugs and more. Our general pest control services target the bugs you're most likely to encounter in and around your home.

Commercial services require custom plans, frequent inspections, detailed reporting, and often compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations (especially in food-related industries). We understand the nuances of providing commercial pest control to business owners like yourself and alter our systems and processes in turn!

No. Termites are active year-round — swarm season makes them more visible, but colonies continue feeding and growing outside of it. Subterranean termites build mud tunnels that allow them to feed inside a structure for months or years without detection. Preventive termite treatments can intercept termites before they enter a structure.

Rodents can pose serious health risks due to the diseases and parasites they carry:

• Disease Transmission: Rodents can spread diseases such as salmonella, hantavirus, leptospirosis, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) through their urine, droppings, and saliva.
• Parasites: Rodents are known to carry fleas, ticks, and mites, which can infest your home and lead to additional health risks for humans and pets.
• Allergies: The dander from rodents, along with their droppings and urine, can trigger allergies and asthma in sensitive individuals.

Yes, regular inspections are crucial, especially if you live in an area with a high risk of termite activity. Annual inspections can help identify potential problems early and prevent extensive damage. Termite problems are often hidden from view, so professional inspections are the best way to spot an issue before it becomes severe.

Hulett offers treatment options for both drywood and subterranean termites.

Drywood termites:

• Structural fumigation (tenting): The entire structure is enclosed and treated with fumigant gas. Residents and pets must vacate for several days. Used for widespread or difficult-to-access infestations.
• No-tent treatment: A non-repellent liquid, foam, or dust is injected directly into termite galleries. No need to vacate or remove plants or household items. Suitable for localized, accessible infestations.

Subterranean termites:

• Liquid Defense Treatment: A liquid termiticide is applied to the soil around the structure's perimeter, creating a treated zone. Widely used across the U.S.
• Termite baiting system: Bait stations are installed around the property perimeter. Termites locate the bait and carry it back to the colony, where it spreads through the population via an insect growth regulator.

The appropriate method depends on the termite species, the extent of the infestation, and the property's access. A termite inspection determines the best approach.

We recommend waiting at least 24–48 hours and watering your lawn before mowing after a fertilization treatment. This gives the product time to activate and absorb properly.

Mosquitoes are drawn to certain conditions around your yard that provide both breeding grounds and sources of attraction. Here’s what brings them in:

• Standing Water: Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs. This could be in anything that holds water, like birdbaths, clogged gutters, flower pots, tire swings, or even puddles. It’s important to check for and eliminate standing water regularly.
• Overgrown Vegetation: Thick shrubs, tall grass, and dense foliage provide shelter for mosquitoes, giving them a cool, humid environment to rest in during the day. Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk but will seek out hiding spots during hotter parts of the day.
• Shaded Areas: Mosquitoes love shade, especially during hot weather. Areas of your yard that don’t get much sunlight—like under trees, around tall bushes, or near structures—are prime spots for mosquitoes to hide out during the day.
• Organic Matter and Decaying Plants: Mosquitoes are attracted to decaying plant material where they can find moisture and nutrients. If you have compost piles or dense plant debris in your yard, this can draw mosquitoes.
• Excessive Moisture: If your yard is constantly damp due to poor drainage or overwatering, this can create the perfect environment for mosquitoes to thrive. Puddles or even wet soil from frequent irrigation can become breeding grounds.
• Certain Plants: While some plants (like citronella) are known to repel mosquitoes, others—like marigolds, jasmine, and lavender—can attract them due to their fragrance. Consider where you plant these in your yard.

While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause itching, allergic reactions, and, in some cases, secondary infections from scratching. They can also cause sleep disturbances and psychological stress due to anxiety about the infestation, but they are not dangerous per se.

Pricing varies based on the size of the facility, pest pressures, and frequency of service. We provide custom quotes after an on-site inspection.

Exterior:

• Seal all cracks, crevices, and holes in the foundation, around windows, and around doorways
• Keep grass cut short and trim branches away from the house
• Eliminate standing water and areas of dense vegetation
• Clean gutters and ensure downspouts drain properly
• Store outdoor toys and equipment away from the house
• Sanitize outdoor trash receptacles regularly

Interior:

• Declutter and vacuum regularly, especially in food areas
• Wipe down food prep and dining surfaces after every meal
• Wash dishes promptly and remove food scraps from the sink
• Store pantry items in metal, glass, or hard plastic containers with tight-fitting lids
• Take food trash to a sealed outdoor receptacle daily
• Avoid storing cardboard boxes indoors

• Droppings: Small, dark droppings near food sources, entry points, or in hidden areas.
• Gnaw marks: Evidence of chewing on wires, furniture, food packaging, or insulation.
• Nesting material: Rodents will gather soft materials like fabric, paper, and insulation to create nests.
• Sounds: Scratching, scurrying, or squeaking noises, especially at night.
• Odor: A musty or urine-like smell, often indicating an active infestation

Here are a few preventive measures:

• Keep wood away from your foundation—don’t store firewood, mulch, or wood debris close to your house.
• Seal cracks and gaps in your foundation and around windows, doors, and pipes.
• Repair leaks promptly to reduce moisture in areas like basements and crawl spaces.
• Consider a termite barrier or treatment for additional protection, especially if you live in an area prone to termites.

Termite bait stations are installed around the property perimeter and use an insect growth regulator that prevents subterranean termites from molting and developing correctly, ultimately eliminating the colony. They can be used as both a preventive measure and a curative treatment for active infestations.

Advantages of termite bait stations:

• Low environmental impact — product is contained within the station and specifically targets termites
• Termites are attracted to the bait over wood, which draws foraging termites away from the structure
• Eliminates the colony rather than creating a repellent barrier
• No intensive digging or drilling required during installation
• Works on most structure types, including those where other treatment methods are not feasible
• Compatible with other termite control methods

Most lawns benefit from fertilization every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season. However, the ideal schedule can vary based on your grass type, soil condition, and local climate.

Chemical treatments use pesticides specifically designed to target and kill bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle (eggs, nymphs, and adults). These treatments are usually applied by a professional pest control technician to areas where bed bugs are likely to hide, such as cracks, crevices, mattresses, and furniture. Here's how it works:

• Application: The technician applies a variety of bed bug-specific pesticides, which may come in the form of sprays, dust, or liquid treatments. The chemicals target bed bugs when they come into contact with treated areas.
• Action: The chemicals affect the nervous system of the bed bugs, causing paralysis and death. Some pesticides also prevent bed bugs from molting, leading to their demise.
• Egg Treatment: Some chemicals are designed to penetrate cracks and crevices to kill eggs, while others may require follow-up treatments to ensure eggs are eliminated.
• Follow-up: Chemical treatments often require multiple applications to address any missed bugs and newly hatched eggs, usually spaced a week or two apart.

While there are over-the-counter products available, DIY treatments are often ineffective and may lead to further infestation or resistance to treatments. Professional pest control services are more effective because they use specialized equipment and proven techniques to target bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle.

Absolutely. We understand the importance of your business's reputation. Our technicians arrive in unmarked or discreetly branded vehicles upon request.

Kitchens attract pests when food, moisture, or shelter is accessible. Key prevention steps:

• Wipe down all food preparation and dining surfaces after every use
• Wash dishes promptly — do not let food accumulate in the sink
• Store open food packages in metal, glass, or hard plastic containers
• Clean up spills in the pantry and discard old dried goods stored in paper or cardboard
• Remove food trash to a sealed, outdoor receptacle daily
• Keep the kitchen floor swept or vacuumed regularly

Exterior maintenance also matters: keeping the yard clean, eliminating standing water, and sealing entry points all reduce the likelihood of pests reaching the kitchen.

Rodents often seek shelter and food inside homes and businesses due to:

• Easy access to food: Open food containers, trash, or pet food are attractive to rodents.
• Entry points: Gaps around windows, doors, and vents, as well as cracks in foundations, provide access.
• Harborage: Warm, dry spaces in attics, basements, and behind walls offer a safe environment for rodents to nest and breed.

Termites enter your home through small cracks or gaps in your foundation, walls, or around pipes and electrical lines. They can also find their way in through wood-to-ground contact or overexposed, untreated areas like wooden decks, fences, or firewood piles.

Different termite species require different treatment approaches. Hulett provides options for both major types found in South Florida.

For drywood termites, options include structural fumigation (tenting) or a no-tent localized treatment. The choice depends on the extent of infestation and accessibility of affected areas.

For subterranean termites, options include a soil-applied liquid termiticide (Liquid Defense) or a perimeter baiting system. Both eliminate active colonies; the right choice depends on property conditions and customer preference.

A professional termite inspection will identify the termite species present and determine the most appropriate treatment method.

We use professional-grade, slow-release fertilizers tailored to the season and your lawn’s specific needs. Our blends promote long-lasting results while being safe for your lawn, family, and pets when used as directed.

Hulett Environmental Services has nearly 60 years of experience in pest control. All technicians are trained by a certified entomologist on a continuous basis and are registered with the state of South Florida. Technicians wear clean uniforms, drive professional vehicles, and typically respond to service calls within 24 hours.

Owner and president Tim Hulett is a Graduate Entomologist. Hulett uses advanced pest management methods and state-of-the-art programs across all service lines, including pest control, rodent control, termite control, fumigation, lawn care, mosquito reduction, commercial services, and pre-construction services. Hulett is open Saturdays and operates a 24-hour hotline.

To prevent future infestations:

• Inspect secondhand furniture and clothing carefully before bringing them into your home.
• Check hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs, such as blood stains or dark spots, before unpacking.
• Encase mattresses and box springs with bed bug-proof covers.
• Regularly clean and vacuum areas where bed bugs could hide, especially around beds and furniture.

It varies. Some animals are removed in a single visit, while others (like bats or squirrels) may require several visits and follow-up sealing work. Contact us to get started and we can provide a more formal estimate and scope!

Cockroaches enter homes in several ways:

• Hitchhiking in cardboard boxes, bags, luggage, furniture, or appliances
• Coming in through plumbing, sewers, and drains (including dishwasher connections)
• Entering through cracks, crevices, and holes in the foundation

Once inside, roaches stay because the home provides food, water, and shelter.

Prevention: Seal all foundation cracks and gaps around doors and windows. Keep the home clean and decluttered, store food properly, remove food trash daily, and avoid accumulating cardboard boxes.

Rodents, especially rats and mice, have a strong instinct to chew. They can gnaw through various materials to gain access to shelter, including:

• Wood: Rodents can chew on wooden beams, walls, and floors, weakening the structural integrity of your home.
• Drywall: Mice and rats can chew through drywall, causing holes and exposing insulation.
• Insulation: Rodents often chew through insulation, leaving areas exposed and reducing your home's energy efficiency.
• Pipes and Wires: Rodents frequently chew on electrical wires, which can cause short circuits, electrical fires, or power outages. They can also damage water pipes and gas lines, leading to leaks and increased risk of water damage or gas hazards.

Rodents can damage personal items by chewing or nesting in them, such as furniture, clothing, books, and electronics.

Termites can begin to cause significant damage surprisingly quickly. The exact timeframe depends on factors like the size of the infestation and the type of termites, but in general:

• Subterranean termites (the most common type) can cause visible damage in as little as 3 to 6 months in a heavily infested area. These termites typically start in hidden areas and work their way into the wood of your home, eating it from the inside out.
• Drywood termites may take several years to cause noticeable damage, as they usually infest smaller areas of wood and are more difficult to detect early on.

In the early stages of an infestation, termites often cause little visible damage. The wood they eat from the inside may look normal on the outside, making it easy for homeowners to miss the signs. However, as they continue to feed, structural damage can escalate quickly, compromising the integrity of your home’s framework. It’s crucial to address any signs of termites early, as even a small infestation can lead to significant damage if left untreated. Regular inspections can help catch potential problems before they become costly.

Yes. Termite colonies, particularly subterranean termites, can extend well beyond a single property, and swarmers from a nearby infestation can travel to establish new colonies in surrounding structures. The bigger issue is that termites can be active inside a home for years before any visible damage appears.

While fertilization promotes a thicker lawn that naturally crowds out weeds, we combine it with targeted weed control for best results. Fertilization alone won’t eliminate existing weeds!

Hulett serves a range of commercial industries, including property management, retail businesses, health care, and housing complexes. Commercial pest control helps protect your business's reputation, avoid health code violations, and prevent the cost of structural repairs caused by unchecked infestations.

Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers and can be brought into your home through luggage, secondhand furniture, clothing, or other items. They are commonly found in places with high foot traffic, such as hotels, dorms, and public transportation.

Common signs include strange noises (scratching, thumping, chirping), droppings, urine smells, chewed wires, damaged vents or shingles, and visible nests or tracks.

Most ants in South Florida homes are nuisance pests, but they can contaminate food and damage pantry goods. Some ant species pose additional concerns:

• Carpenter ants can nest inside damaged or hollow wood in attics, decks, fascia boards, and fence posts
• Fire ants sting and can do so repeatedly if their mound is disturbed; reactions range from localized pain and itching to, in rare cases, anaphylaxis requiring medical attention

Fire ants build mounds in open yard areas. Treatment is recommended when children or pets regularly use the yard.

You should notice a reduction in flea and tick activity within 24–48 hours after the initial treatment. Full effectiveness builds over time as the product continues to work on fleas and ticks at various stages of their life cycle.

There are three primary types of termites that can infest homes and properties: Subterranean, Drywood, and Formosan termites. Each type behaves differently, has unique characteristics, and requires different approaches to control and treatment. Subterranean termites are the most destructive and widespread type of termites in the United States!

No, you generally do not need to wash everything after a pest control treatment. Our technicians typically recommend spot cleaning only and avoiding the use of brooms, mops, vacuums, or dusters along treated baseboards, as this can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. For homeowners and businesses throughout Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast Area, following your technician's post-treatment instructions helps treatments remain effective while the pest issue is being addressed.

Read More: https://www.bugs.com/blog/do-i-need-wash-everything-after-pest-control-treatment

Every lawn can benefit from ongoing care, regardless of its current condition. Professional lawn care helps maintain a healthy, lush lawn, prevents common issues like weeds or pests, and improves overall appearance. Even if your lawn seems fine, regular maintenance can keep it thriving year-round. If you’re noticing signs like uneven growth, thinning grass, brown patches, or insect problems, it may be time for professional care to get your lawn back in top shape.

Log in to your account at bugs.com using your email and password. If you do not have an account, you can sign up on the website.

Heat treatments involve raising the temperature in the affected area to a level that kills bed bugs at all stages of life. This process is chemical-free and environmentally friendly. Here's how it works:

• Temperature: Professional-grade equipment is used to heat rooms or specific areas of your home to 118°F (48°C) or higher. Bed bugs, including their eggs, die when exposed to these temperatures for an extended period.
• Uniform Heat: Heat treatment is effective because it reaches all parts of the infested area, including cracks, walls, and furniture, which may be difficult to reach with chemicals.
• Duration: The room or home is typically heated for about 6-8 hours, ensuring that the temperature remains high enough to eliminate all bed bugs.

Many customers notice a significant drop in mosquito activity within 24–48 hours after the first treatment. Consistent service helps maintain control all season long.

Spray products require direct contact with the target insect and break down relatively quickly. Baits work differently — foraging insects like ants carry bait back to the colony and share it with other members, including those that never come into direct contact with the treatment. This makes baiting more effective at reducing entire colonies, not just individual insects on the surface.

Yes, treating both your yard and your pets is the most effective way to control fleas and ticks. While yard treatments eliminate fleas and ticks in the environment, treating your pets directly ensures that they don’t bring new pests back into your yard.

If left untreated, termites can cause significant structural damage that could lead to expensive repairs. Over time, termites can weaken beams, flooring, and even the foundation of your home. Early intervention is key to preventing costly damage.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is one of the most environmentally friendly methods for controlling pests. It focuses on prevention, monitoring, and using the least toxic solutions first, with stronger treatments only if needed. This approach helps manage pests while reducing environmental impact, making it a practical option in Make sure the locations are in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast Area.

Read More: https://www.bugs.com/blog/what-most-environmentally-friendly-method-controlling-pests

No, for most general pest control treatments, you do not need to leave your home. Our products are applied carefully and in targeted areas, so you can go about your day with minimal disruption. If a specific treatment ever requires special precautions, we’ll let you know ahead of time.

There’s no need to prepare your landscape for treatment! However, you will likely need to water your lawn or landscape after the treatment to help the products work effectively and ensure results.

Pests enter homes in search of food, water, and shelter. Common entry points include cracks, crevices, and holes in the foundation, and gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines.

Conditions that attract pests include:

• Clutter in the yard providing nesting sites
• Clogged gutters or improper drainage
• Water-damaged wood
• Mulch, firewood, or plant debris stacked against the home's exterior
• Food scraps, unsealed containers, and unwashed dishes indoors
• Open or unsanitized outdoor trash receptacles
• Pantry goods stored in paper or cardboard packaging

Addressing these conditions, paired with routine professional pest control, reduces pest pressure significantly.

Treatment can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the size of the infestation and the treatment method used. Heat treatments, in particular, can require the home to be vacated for several hours while the temperature is raised to eliminate bed bugs.

We take special care around edible plants and can adjust our treatment plan or use food-safe products to protect your garden areas.

Per University of Florida IFAS guidance, cleaning is not required after pest control treatments when an integrated pest management (IPM) approach is used. IPM relies on targeted baits and low-dose, crack-and-crevice applications that leave minimal residue on home surfaces.

That said, maintaining a clean home helps deter pests between treatments. This includes wiping surfaces after meals, storing food properly, fixing leaky faucets, keeping the yard maintained, and sealing exterior entry points.

For Fleas:

• Pets: Fleas are most commonly introduced into yards by pets, especially cats and dogs. Fleas latch onto pets when they go outdoors and then spread to the surrounding areas.
• Warm, Moist Areas: Fleas thrive in warm, moist environments, so areas like shaded spots, grassy areas, and areas with heavy leaf cover or mulch can be perfect places for fleas to hide and breed.
• Wild Animals: Fleas can also be carried by wild animals like squirrels, raccoons, and rodents. These animals can bring fleas into your yard, where they’ll continue to breed and spread.

For Ticks:

• Tall Grass and Vegetation: Ticks tend to live in tall grass, brush, and wooded areas where they can easily latch onto passing hosts (such as pets or people). They’re most active in shady, moist areas, especially along the edges of forests or wooded borders of your yard.
• Rodents and Wildlife: Ticks are often carried by wildlife such as deer, mice, and birds. These animals can introduce ticks into your yard, which will then seek out a host to attach to.
• Moist, Humid Conditions: Like fleas, ticks thrive in areas with high humidity, especially during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is warmer and wetter.

By keeping your yard well-maintained—mowing regularly, removing excess brush, and trimming back vegetation—you can reduce the conditions that attract both fleas and ticks. Additionally, keeping pets on flea and tick prevention and addressing any rodent or wildlife issues can further help limit these pests.

• Body Shape: Termites have broad, straight bodies with no defined waist; carpenter ants have a narrow, pinched waist.
• Antennae: Termites have straight antennae; carpenter ants have bent (“elbowed”) antennae.
• Color: Termites are pale or light-colored; carpenter ants are dark brown, black, or reddish.
• Wood Damage: Termites eat wood, leaving rough, mud-lined tunnels and mud tubes; carpenter ants tunnel into wood, leaving smooth galleries and piles of sawdust.
• Wings: Termite wings are equal in length and longer than their bodies; carpenter ants have larger front wings and smaller hind wings.

Still unsure? Both Carpenter ants and Termites are dangerous wood-destroying insects!

Please call us as soon as possible to schedule an inspection.