Pest control around the home

House pests are a serious problem for many homeowners, so how can you identify the common types of pests found in Australian homes, and what can you do if you think your home is being invaded? 

"In the residential market, the pest problems tend to be seasonal, and pests will appear in numbers according to the current environmental conditions," says Andy Hamilton-Smith, a biologist at Rentokil Pest Control.

When are pests attracted to homes?

"House pests such as spiders, flies, European wasps, cockroaches and fleas are far more prevalent during the spring and summer months. This is also the time of the year when termites (white ants) tend to be more active."

During the cooler months, it's the rodents, as they move inside in search of warmth, food and shelter. It should be remembered, though, that any type of house pest can be active at any time of the year. Other domestic pests include moths, carpet beetles, silverfish, birds, possums and feral cats.

What kind of damage can house pests cause?

House pests can cause health problems, food spoilage, damage to home furnishings, leading to property devaluation. This is especially the case with termites, which can significantly damage important elements of a house's structure.

If you're not sure what kind of pest is causing damage in your home, call in a pest control expert. They will have training in the biology and habits of each type of house pest and should be able to identify which species is causing your problem.

How can a pest control expert help me?

"We are qualified in recognising the specific signs and evidence of infestations," says Andy. "This could involve the identification of rodent species from the droppings found, or from the type of gnaw marks left on items in the home.

“It could involve a more investigative home inspection to determine how a particular house pest has gained entry, or in the case of subterranean termites, how they have gained entry and to what extent they have spread throughout the building."

What processes are involved with extermination?

The treatment of pests can be as simple as removing infested stock from the pantry, or as complex as embarking on a full treatment regime, such as the kind needed to rid a house of termite infestation.

"Treatment can eventuate in a number of ways, or by using a combination of methods," says Andy.

"The combination of methods may include good hygiene practices, regular stock rotation, physically proofing the home against pest entry and the well-planned, safe and environmentally acceptable application of registered and approved pesticides by fully trained and licensed personnel."

Contact a pest control expert in your area if you’re concerned about pests around the home: