How to Prepare Your Home for Fumigation

Fumigation is more disruptive than a typical pest control visit, mainly because it requires the property to be vacated for a period. A bit of preparation the day before makes the appointment go faster and gives you a smoother re-entry afterward.

Food and kitchen items

Seal dry food in airtight containers or remove it from the property entirely. Fridges and freezers are generally left in place, but check with your technician whether they need to be unplugged or emptied for your specific treatment.

Clothing, linens and soft furnishings

Bag and seal clothing in wardrobes and drawers where practical, particularly if you're treating for bedbugs or a pest that hides in fabric. For general fumigation, most soft furnishings can stay in place, but ask your technician if anything specific needs covering.

Pets

Pets need to be removed from the property for the full vacating period — this includes fish tanks in some cases, so confirm with your technician whether aquariums need to be covered, moved, or have air pumps switched off during treatment.

People

Everyone needs to leave the property for the period specified by the technician, including anyone who might normally stay through a shorter treatment. Arrange somewhere to be for the day, and don't plan to check in on the property before the confirmed re-entry time.

Access

Make sure the technician has full access to every room that needs treatment, including any locked rooms, storage areas or outbuildings. Unlock these before you leave rather than leaving keys behind.

After treatment: re-entry

Every fumigation product has its own re-entry and ventilation requirements — some need a few hours, others need longer. Your technician will give you the specific timing for the product used on your property. Once you're cleared to re-enter, ventilate the property by opening windows before spending extended time inside, and wipe down surfaces that food will directly contact, like countertops and dining tables.

For the general safety principles behind these steps, see our Fumigation Safety page — but always follow your technician's specific instructions over general guidance, since products and situations vary.