myRentokil
Access the online reporting system
© 2026 Rentokil Initial plc and subject to the conditions in the legal statement
Booking a professional pest control service is an essential step in managing unwanted pests in your home. However, many people are unsure what to do before the technician arrives or how to maintain the treatment's effectiveness afterwards.
Preparing your property properly helps technicians access the right areas and ensures treatments are applied safely and effectively. Post-treatment care is just as critical; it supports long-term results and reduces the chance of recurring problems.
This guide outlines the essential steps to take before and after your pest control service, tailored for Australian homes and Rentokil’s professional pest control methods.
Pest control treatments are most effective when technicians can locate and address the source of the infestation. Obstructed access, unsealed food, or damp conditions can limit the success of treatment.
Good preparation helps:
Simple actions before and after your appointment can make a significant difference in the success of your pest management plan.
Sweep, vacuum, and wipe down benchtops in key areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry. This clears crumbs, food particles, and excess moisture that attract pests.
However, avoid deep cleaning (like mopping floors or wiping skirting boards) in the 24 hours after treatment, as this may remove residual products before they’ve taken effect.
Technicians need access to the edges of rooms, skirting boards, behind appliances, and dark corners; these are common pest hiding spots.
Move items such as:
Decluttering also reduces pest harbourage areas and improves treatment coverage.
Store all food in sealed containers or remove it from benches before treatment. Cover or store:
Cups, plates, and cutlery can be placed inside cupboards. If you leave them exposed, cover them with a clean cloth or plastic wrap.
You need to check for leaks or excess humidity in bathrooms, laundries, or kitchens. Fixing these before treatment ensures the products used are not diluted by ongoing moisture.
Open windows on the day if the weather allows, to support airflow once the technician finishes.
Pest control products are safe when used correctly, but it’s best to keep children and pets away during and immediately after treatment.
You may be asked to leave the house for 2–4 hours, depending on the service. Plan accordingly for:
Speak with your Rentokil technician before your appointment if you have concerns about pets.
Note down any signs of activity you’ve seen:
Mention these to the technician when they arrive. This helps them target the problem zones more accurately.
Your Rentokil technician will:
Common treatments may include gel baits, sprays, dusts, or traps, depending on the pest. The technician will always explain which products are used and any precautions to follow.
Avoid mopping floors, wiping treated surfaces, or using strong cleaning agents for at least 24 hours. This allows products to remain effective.
If urgent cleaning is required, avoid the edges of rooms or skirting boards where treatments are usually applied.
Once the technician has completed the job and advised it’s safe to re-enter, open windows and doors to let fresh air circulate. This helps clear any residual odour from sprays.
Even after treatment, keeping your home clean and dry helps reduce pest attraction. Continue to:
Pest control products work better when food and water sources are removed.
You may still see some pest activity after treatment, particularly if bait is used. This is often a sign that the treatment is working. Pests come into contact with the products before dying.
Contact your technician if:
Rentokil offers follow-up support and scheduled services where required.
Each pest requires slightly different aftercare:
Your technician will provide custom instructions based on your treatment type.
Rentokil’s pest control services are designed to manage current infestations and reduce the chance of recurrence. To support long-term success:
Professional pest management works best when paired with good hygiene and property maintenance.
Preparing your home before a pest control visit and maintaining simple steps afterwards can significantly improve treatment success. It also helps reduce the chance of repeat infestations, keeping your home safer and more comfortable year-round.
Rentokil’s local teams across Australia are trained to treat a wide range of pests in homes, apartments, and commercial properties. By following expert advice before and after each visit, you’ll support a cleaner, healthier living space with fewer pest-related problems.
Protecting Australian homes and businesses for over 50 years