What Do Bed Bug Exterminators Do?

One of the initial tasks of control is inspections to locate where the pests are hiding and to determine the degree of infestation. The results of a thorough inspection can determine the treatment protocol. Experienced exterminators know exactly where to look and use a wide array of tools to assist them with this task. Because they can travel throughout a home or building, inspections of adjoining rooms or apartments are also often required.

Integrated Pest Management

Most pest management professionals practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which includes a combination of treatment methods such as steam heat, freezing and pesticides, which are selected and applied carefully according to factors that are present with the infestation. IPM programs may also include strategies to manage pests such as sealing cracks and crevices where they may hide and modifying windows and doors to prevent pests from entering dwellings. Professional exterminators are trained and licensed in pesticide application to ensure safety of occupants and effectiveness of controlling these pests. Professional exterminators also educate the residents when the infestation is severe, helping to determine how the infestation occurred and steps that can be taken to avoid a re-infestation after the treatment has been completed.

Can an exterminator get rid of bed bugs?

Yes, an exterminator can get rid of bed bugs, and they are really your best bet. A pest control provider has training on bed bug biology and behavior, meaning they know where to look for bed bugs and how to eliminate them when they find them. By using a combination of techniques, they can eliminate bed bugs at all stages of development, something virtually impossible to achieve with DIY products.

Can you get rid of bed bugs permanently?

You can get rid of bed bugs, but there is always a chance another bed bug will find its way back into your home or business. If you find bed bugs are a recurring problem, you are either not solving the problem in the first place, or you continue to visit a place (or have guests that visit a place) where bed bugs are present. This is particularly common in multi-family housing such as apartments or condominiums. Bed bugs can easily be carried from unit to unit, and it can be a huge frustration. The best prevention is diligent inspections, and if you find you have bed bugs in a multi-family property, make sure to notify your property manager. If you have an issue, it is possible your neighbors do too, and then things can get out of hand very quickly.