Common Questions About Fumigations

Having a fumigation done in your home or business is a serious undertaking. And it's only natural that home or business owners to have questions. Here are some common questions about fumigations:

1. How can I tell if my building has been fumigated? First, let's determine whether or not your home has been fumigated in the past. Since 1961, the law requires that a fumigator must post a sign upon the completion of a fumigation. This sign can be found in the attic or in the basement of your home. These signs should be left intact. Knowing whether or not your home has been fumigated will help you to know what agents were used

2. What do I do to prepare for a fumigation? Before getting a fumigation, you'll want to let people know. Set a meeting time and inform residents, employees, or family members when the fumigation will be and what to expect. Then work to package or remove items that will be at risk during a fumigation. Work with the fumigation company to make sure that technicians have access to all parts of the building. Open all drawers and doors to allow the product to get where it needs to go, and open blinds and shades to give technicians access to windows. For more information, see this helpful blog from Action Pest.

3. Do the gases used in a fumigation have a smell? The actual fumigants are odorless. That is why fumigators are required by law to add a warning agent. If you smell a light chemical smell when you return, it is the residual smell of chloropicrin which is the active agent in tear gas. Don't worry, this smell won't stay long.

4. Are fumigations safe? Not during a fumigation, that is why it is important to have a professional do it. Your home will need to be tented to keep the gases from escaping. But after the fumigation, it is completely safe to return. If you have concerns, read this excellent article from Berkeley University.

Fumigations are extremely important for getting bugs that are deep within a structure, like wood-destroying beetles, drywood termites, and bed bugs. If you're having out of control pest problems, see if a fumigation is the right choice for you.