How to Control Pests After a Flood in both residential & commercial properties

Households & businesses in the post-flood recovery face difficulties and challenges and pests are usually the last thing on someone’s mind when cleaning up the damage that is left after a flood.

It is important to also remember that pests can create a challenge after a flood

Take the following steps to mitigate their presence and pressure:

Inspect for damage

Once the floodwater has subsided, inspect the structure of your home for any sustained damage to determine if it is safe to return home and also identify which areas need fixing or replacing.

A flood may have cracked a wall or broken a window, providing pests access to your home.

Secure Entrance Points

Keep entrances covered with plywood or mesh screens because while groundwater may have already receded, sewers could still be flooded.

Pests may still be looking for a place to stay and closing all entry points makes it harder for these opportunistic tenants to find access to your property.

Control Moisture

Warm, moist environments make the best breeding grounds for pests, and floods can enhance these conditions.

One of the best ways to prevent an infestation in your home post-flood is to control moisture and regulate humidity.

Fans are helpful tools to cool your home and dry your rooms.

You can also invest in a dehumidifier if humidity is a problem.

Remove all items that hold standing water, such as bottles, cans, tires, pots, and buckets. Any vessel that can hold 1cm of water is enough for mosquitoes to breed!

Remove Rubbish and Organic Matters

Rubbish and organic matters are a good source of both food and shelter for these pests.

Rodents, cockroaches, and flies, take advantage of these available resources to flourish.

It’s recommended to place all rubbish inside sealed bags and tight-lid containers or bins

Deceased animals

This is an unfortunate truth, that during floods pets and other animals may drown during the flood.

Place the deceased animal inside a plastic bag and close off the bag.

Call your local animal care and control services.

It is also recommended to make a note and share the information with your pest control provide.

Clean and Sanitize

Clean and declutter your home after the flood.

Remove and dry all water-soaked and water-compromised objects and materials from your home.

Sanitize around and underneath furniture, fixtures, and appliances to get rid of any dirt and excrements left by the floodwaters.

Get Rid of the Pests

Once the clean up has been completed you are now at a stage to organise pest control.

Call Sydneys Best Pest Control on 1800 819 189 or book online now