When should you call an exterminator?

Decode the signs that it’s time to call on the professional services of pest control specialists: 

• Material damage (chewed electrical wires, holes in walls, damaged furniture, etc.) 

• Presence of droppings, strong and unpleasant odours, unusual noises 

• The pest poses a health or safety risk to residents (wasp, bee, or carpenter ant infestation, etc.) 

• Chemical risks in the presence of children or pets

How to choose a good exterminator?

Exterminator: Criteria to check

Before hiring a company, take the time to compare at least three quotes to make an informed choice. But don’t wait too long, as some species can spread or cause damage quickly. Ensure that the company: 

• Holds a pest control contractor licence issued by the Ministry of Environment 

• Employs certified technicians to perform or supervise the work 

Prefer a pest control company that: 

• Is a member of a recognized association, such as the AQGP (Association québécoise de la gestion parasitaire) 

• Is covered by liability insurance in case of an accident 

Good to know: Members of AQGP and companies approved by CAA-Quebec are required to hold such insurance. 

A qualified professional should:

• Identify potential invading species and locate the areas to be treated 

• Propose a comprehensive extermination strategy, not just set traps 

• Seal the entry points through which pests infiltrate. Only a professional exterminator holding a licence 7 from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) can perform such work. 

Are exterminator services guaranteed?

Your contract should include a guarantee specifying that the exterminator will return if pest problems reoccur within a certain period. However, this does not mean that the problem will never return. New visitors could settle on your property or in your home. 

What are effective extermination methods?

Extermination methods vary depending on the type of infestation and the extent of the problem. The choice of method often depends on the location, the safety of the occupants, and the effectiveness of the approach. 

• Traps and baits: Often used for rodents and certain insects 

• Chemical treatments: Effective but requires precautions, especially for health and the environment 

• Ecological treatments: Often preferred for their low ecological impact: essential oils, microscopic worms, or pheromone traps 

• Thermal extermination: This process using extreme heat is effective for localized infestations like bed bugs 

• Gas extermination: Technique used to eradicate pests in confined or hard-to-reach spaces, such as hollow walls or attics 

These methods can be combined for maximum effectiveness, depending on the infestation and specific needs. 

Should you leave the house during extermination work?

This depends on the treatment used. For your safety and the success of the intervention, the exterminator will indicate if it is necessary to temporarily evacuate your residence.

Good to know: Several interventions require follow-up, as some eggs and larvae may survive the first treatment. 

Got some unwanted insects or animals in your home? CAA-Quebec’s Residential Advisory Services can guide you and, if necessary, recommend a reliable company. Read our Guide to Insect Pests and Guide to Animal Pests to find out who you’re dealing with. 

How to prevent pest infestation in your home?

Prevention is essential to avoid pest infestation in your home. A good maintenance strategy can help you reduce risks as well as keep your space healthy and pest free: 

• Seal cracks and openings in walls, windows, or doors to protect your home 

• Keep your house clean by eliminating crumbs, food waste, and regularly cleaning damp areas 

• Store food sources in airtight containers 

• Perform preventive maintenance of outdoor spaces to prevent access to your home 

• Install protective screens on windows or vents to prevent the intrusion of unwanted animals 

• Consider implementing preventive treatments such as traps or pest control solutions to keep your space secure 

A proactive approach and early detection can help in minimizing costly repairs and ensuring cost effectiveness. Constant vigilance, rigorous maintenance of your residence, and a few other simple actions will help reduce the risk of infestation in the long term.