Pest Control Questions & Answers
Find answers to common pest control questions, including rodent control, spiders, ants, wasps, cockroaches, treatment safety and pest prevention.
Serving Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua and Kapiti Coast.
Professional advice from experienced local pest control specialists.
Frequently Asked Pest Control Questions
Whether you're dealing with rats, mice, spiders, ants, wasps, cockroaches or other pests, our team provides professional pest control services to homeowners and businesses throughout Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua and Kapiti Coast.
Browse the questions below for practical advice on pest identification, pest control treatments, prevention, property protection and ongoing pest management.
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General Pest Control Questions
How much does pest control cost?
Pest control costs vary depending on the type of pest, the size of the property, the level of infestation and the treatment required. Apex Pest Solutions provide clear, upfront pricing and can recommend the most effective treatment option for your situation.
How often should pest control be carried out?
Most homes benefit from annual pest control treatments. However, properties with ongoing pest pressure, commercial premises, food businesses or homes in high-risk areas may require more frequent visits.
How long does a pest control treatment take?
Most residential pest control treatments take between 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the size of the property and the pest being treated.
Do you provide residential and commercial pest control?
Yes. Apex Pest Solutions provides pest control services for homes, rental properties, offices, retail premises, hospitality businesses, warehouses and other commercial properties throughout Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua and the Kapiti Coast.
Is professional pest control worth it?
Professional pest control provides targeted treatments, expert advice and ongoing prevention strategies that can help resolve pest issues faster and reduce the risk of future infestations. DIY treatments may provide temporary relief but often fail to address the underlying cause of recurring pest activity.
Are pest control treatments safe for children and pets?
We use professional pest control products and methods designed to be safe when applied according to label instructions. We will always advise you of any precautions that should be taken before or after treatment.
Do I need to leave my home during treatment?
For most treatments, no. Wasp, rodent, ant and exterior-only treatments can typically be carried out while you remain home. If an interior spray treatment is required, we will provide preparation instructions beforehand and advise you of any temporary precautions that may apply.
What are the most common pests in the Wellington region?
Common pests in the Wellington region include rats, mice, ants, spiders, wasps, cockroaches, fleas, carpet beetles and moths. The types of pests encountered can vary depending on the season, property type and surrounding environment.
Can pest problems return after treatment?
Even with effective treatment, pests can return if food sources, moisture or entry points remain available. Regular inspections, preventative treatments and good property maintenance can help reduce the risk of future infestations.
Rodent Control FAQs
How do i know if i have rats or mice?
Common signs include droppings, scratching sounds in walls or ceilings, gnaw marks, nesting materials, damaged food packaging and unusual pet behaviour. If you're experiencing signs of rodent activity, learn more about our Rodent Control Services.
What's the difference between rats and mice?
Rats are generally larger, require more food and can cause more significant damage. Mice are smaller and can enter buildings through very small gaps and openings. Both species can contaminate food and create health and hygiene concerns.
Are rodent treatments safe around children and pets?
Professional rodent control programmes are designed to minimise risk when applied correctly. We will explain any precautions required and use treatment methods appropriate for your property and situation.
Are rats and mice active year-round in the Wellington region?
Yes. Rats and mice can be active throughout the year in the Wellington region, although activity often increases during colder months as rodents seek warmth, shelter, food and water inside homes and businesses and other buildings.
How quickly can rodent problems be resolved?
Many rodent issues show significant improvement within days, although the timeframe can vary depending on the size of the infestation and the property layout. Ongoing monitoring helps achieve long-term control.
Why do rats keep coming back?
Rodents often return when food, water and shelter remains accessible. Effective rodent control combines treatment with proofing and prevention measures.
Can rodents damage my property?
Yes. Rats and mice can damage insulation, wiring, stored items, building materials and food supplies. They are also known to chew electrical cables, which can create safety risks and lead to costly repairs.
What attracts rodents to a property?
Food scraps, pet food, bird feeders, rubbish bins, compost areas, water sources and sheltered hiding places can attract rats and mice to a property.
How can I prevent future rodent infestations?
Keeping food sealed, reducing clutter, removing nesting opportunities and sealing entry points can help reduce the likelihood of future rodent activity. Regular inspections can also help identify problems before they become established infestations.
Spider Control FAQs
Do spider treatments really work?
Yes. Professional spider treatments significantly reduce spider activity and help prevent reinfestation when applied correctly. Regular treatments can provide ongoing protections and long-term spider control. Learn more about our professional Spider Control Services for long-term protection.
How long do spider treatments last?
Treatments effectiveness varies based on weather exposure, property conditions and spider pressure. We can recommend an appropriate maintenance schedule for ongoing protection.
Will spider treatment remove spider webs?
Spider treatments reduce spider activity, but existing webs generally need to be removed separately as part of normal cleaning and property maintenance.
Do spiders come back after treatment?
Spider activity can gradually return over time, particularly where insect activity remains high. Regular treatments can help maintain long-term control.
Why do spiders keep coming back?
Spiders often return when there is an abundant food source, suitable shelter and ongoing insect activity around the property. Regular spider treatments and reducing insect activity can help minimise future infestations.
Are the spiders in Wellington dangerous?
Most spiders found in Wellington homes are nuisance pests rather than dangerous species. However, many people prefer treatment due to spider webs, appearance and increasing spider activity around the property.
Why are there so many spiders around my home?
Spiders are attracted to areas with abundant insect activity, shelter and suitable breeding conditions. Homes with higher insect activity often experience increased spider activity as a result.
What time of year are spiders most active?
Spider activity can occur throughout the year, but many homeowners notice increased activity during warmer months when insect populations are higher.
Is spider treatment safe around children and pets?
Professional spider control products are designed to be used safely when applied correctly. We will explain any precautions required before treatment begins.
Are spiders active year-round in the Wellington region?
Yes. Spiders can be active throughout the year in the Wellington region, although many homeowners notice increased activity during the warmer months when insect populations are higher and spider breeding activity increases.
Ant Control FAQs
Why do ants keep coming back?
Ant colonies are often established outside the home, which means visible ants may continue appearing until the source colony is effectively treated. Professional Ant Control Services can help target the source of the infestation.
Can ants cause property damage?
Some ants species are mainly nuisance pests, while others can contaminate food or create issues around structures and gardens.
How quickly can ant infestations be controlled?
The time required depends on the size of the infestation and the location of the colony. Many ant problems show noticeable improvement within days of treatment, although complete control may take longer for larger or established colonies.
Are ant treatments safe around children and pets?
Professional ant treatments are designed to be used safely when applied correctly. We will explain any precautions required before treatment begins and recommend the most suitable treatment approach for your property.
Are ants active year-round in the Wellington region?
Yes. Ants can be active throughout the year in the Wellington region, although activity is generally more noticeable during the warmer months when colonies are growing and foraging activity increases.
What ant species are most common in the Wellington region?
Ants are a common pest throughout the Wellington region, invading homes and businesses in search of food, water and shelter. Our professional ant control treatment is designed to effectively eliminate all common Wellington region ant species and provide lasting protection against future infestations.
What attracts ants into homes?
Food crumbs, sugary substances, pet food, moisture and easy access points commonly attract ants.
Is spraying ants enough?
Surface spraying may kill visible ants but often does not eliminate the colony. Professional treatments target the source of the infestation for more effective long-term control.
Why are ants more active in warmer months?
Ant activity typically increases during warmer months as colonies become more active and food sources become more abundant. This often results in an increase in visible ant trails around homes and businesses.
How can I prevent ants from returning?
Keeping food sealed, cleaning up spills promptly, reducing moisture issues and sealing potential entry points can help reduce the likelihood of future ant activity.
Do DIY ant treatments work?
DIY products may provide temporary relief by killing visible ants, but they often fail to eliminate the colony. Professional treatments target the source of the infestation for more effective long-term control.
Why do ants keep returning after treatment?
Ant activity may continue for a short period after treatment as worker ants carry bait or treatment products back to the colony. Ongoing activity can also occur if multiple colonies are present around the property. Follow-up treatments may be recommended for larger infestations.
Cockroach Control FAQs
How do I know I have cockroaches?
Common signs of a cockroach infestation include seeing live cockroaches, finding droppings, noticing egg cases, unpleasant odours or spotting cockroaches in kitchens, bathrooms and other warm, sheltered areas.
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Cockroaches can contaminate food and surfaces as they move through a property. They may also contribute to allergy and asthma triggers in some people.
Why do cockroaches keep coming back?
Cockroaches are attracted to food, water, warmth and hiding places, If these conditions remain available, cockroach activity can continue or return after treatment. Our Cockroach Control Services are designed to target both visible and hidden cockroach activity.
What attracts cockroaches into homes?
Food scraps, dirty dishes, rubbish, pet food, moisture, leaking pipes and cluttered storage areas can all attract cockroaches into properties.
How quickly can cockroach infestations be controlled?
Many cockroach infestations show noticeable improvement within days of treatment. Larger or established infestations may require follow-up treatments to achieve effective long-term control.
Where are cockroaches commonly found?
Cockroaches are commonly found in warm, dark and sheltered areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, cupboards, roof spaces and behind appliances. They often hide during the day and become more active at night.
What types of cockroaches are common in the Wellington region?
Several cockroach species can be found throughout the Wellington region. Some species are more likely to invade homes and businesses, while others are commonly found outdoors. Correct identification helps determine the most effective treatment approach.
Are cockroach treatments safe around children and pets?
Professional cockroach treatments are designed to be used safely when applied correctly. We will explain any precautions required before treatment begins and recommend the most suitable treatment approach for your property.
Do DIY cockroach treatments work?
DIY products may kill visible cockroaches but often fail to eliminate hidden populations, nesting areas and breeding sites. Professional treatments target the source of the infestation for more effective long-term control.
Can cockroaches spread bacteria?
Cockroaches can pick up and transfer bacteria as they move between drains, rubbish areas and food preparation surfaces. This is one reason cockroach infestations should be addressed promptly.
How can I prevent cockroaches from returning?
Keeping food sealed, maintaining good hygiene, reducing moisture, repairing leaks and removing potential hiding places can help reduce the likelihood of future cockroach infestations.
Are cockroaches active year-round in the Wellington region?
Yes. Cockroaches can remain active throughout the year in homes and commercial buildings across the Wellington region, particularly in warm environments where food and moisture are readily available.
Flea Control FAQs
Do I need flea treatment if I no longer have pets?
Yes. Fleas can remain in carpets, furniture, bedding and other areas even after pets are no longer present. Professional treatment helps eliminate active infestations and immature flea stages.
How do I know I have fleas?
Common signs include bites on people or pets, excessive scratching by pets, visible fleas and small black flea dirt found on pet bedding or carpets. If you suspect a flea infestation, learn more about our Flea Control Services.
How quickly can flea infestations be controlled?
Many flea infestations show significant improvement within days of treatment. However, newly emerging fleas may continue to appear for a short period after treatment as eggs hatch.
Are flea treatments safe around children and pets?
Professional flea treatments are designed to be used safely when applied correctly. We will explain any preparation requirements and precautions before treatment begins.
Why do fleas keep coming back?
Fleas have a complex life cycle that includes eggs, larvae and pupae. If all life stages are not addressed, flea activity can continue after initial treatment.
How can I prevent future flea infestations?
Regular pet treatments, vacuuming, washing pet bedding and maintaining a clean environment can help reduce the likelihood of future flea infestations.
Are fleas active year-round in the Wellington region?
Yes. Fleas can remain active throughout the year inside homes where warm conditions allow them to complete their life cycle.
Carpet Beetle & Carpet Moth FAQs
What are carpet beetles?
Carpet beetles are small insects whose larvae feed on natural fibres such as wool, carpets, clothing, upholstery and other household fabrics.
What are carpet moths?
Carpet moths are fabric-damaging pests whose larvae feed on natural fibres, including wool carpets, rugs, clothing and stored textiles.
How do I know if I have carpet beetles or carpet moths?
Common signs include damaged carpets, holes in clothing or fabrics, shed larval skins, adult insects and visible larvae near affected materials.
Can carpet beetles damage my property?
Yes. Carpet beetle larvae can damage carpets, rugs, upholstery, clothing, curtains and other natural-fibre materials if left untreated. Our Carpet Beetle & Moth Control Services can help prevent further damage to carpets, rugs and textiles.
Can carpet moths damage carpets and clothing?
Yes. Carpet moth larvae feed on natural fibres and can cause significant damage to carpets, rugs, clothing and stored textiles if left untreated.
How quickly can carpet beetle and carpet moth infestations be controlled?
The time required depends on the extent of the infestation and the areas affected. Early treatment generally provides the best results and helps prevent further damage.
How can I prevent carpet beetles and carpet moths from returning?
Regular vacuuming, proper storage of clothing, reducing lint accumulation and routine inspections of carpets and fabrics to minimise future infestations.
Are carpet beetles and carpet moths active year-round in the Wellington region?
Yes. Both pests can remain active throughout the year inside homes and buildings where suitable food sources and shelter are available.
Wasp Control FAQs
Can I remove a wasp nest myself?
Attempting to remove a wasp nest yourself can be dangerous, particularly for large nests or individuals who are allergic to wasp stings.
Professional wasp nest treatment is the safest option. For safety, we recommend professional Wasp Nest Removal Services.
How do I know if I have a wasp nest?
Frequent wasp activity around a particular area, such as a roof void, shed, wall cavity, tree or garden, may indicate a nearby nest. Wasps repeatedly entering and leaving the same location is a common sign.
How quickly can a wasp nest be removed?
Most wasp nest treatments can be completed during a single visit, depending on the location, size and accessibility of the nest.
Are wasp treatments safe around children and pets?
Professional wasp treatments are designed to be used safely when applied correctly. We will explain any temporary precautions required before treatment begins.
Are wasps active year-round in the Wellington region?
Wasp activity is typically highest during spring, summer and early autumn. Activity generally decreases during colder months as colonies naturally die off.
When are wasps most active?
Wasps are generally most active during the warmer months, particularly throughout summer and early autumn when colonies are at their largest.
Will wasps return after treatment?
Once a nest has been successfully treated, activity usually ceases. However new nests may be established elsewhere in the property during future seasons.
Where do wasps commonly build nests?
Wasps commonly build nests in roof spaces, wall cavities, sheds, trees, shrubs, retaining walls, underground cavities and other sheltered locations.
What should I do if I find a wasp nest?
Avoid disturbing the nest and keep children and pets away from the area. Contact a professional pest control technician to assess and safely treat the nest.
Why are there so many wasps around my property?
Wasps are attracted to food sources, sugary drinks, rubbish bins, outdoor eating areas and sheltered nesting locations. Increased wasp activity may indicate a nearby nest.
Commercial Pest Control FAQs
Do you provide commercial pest control services?
Yes. Apex Pest Solutions provides commercial pest control services for offices, retail premises, hospitality businesses, warehouses, property managers and other commercial properties throughout Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua and the Kapiti Coast.
What types of businesses do you work with?
We work with a wide range of businesses, including offices, restaurants, cafés, retail stores, warehouses, industrial facilities, schools and property management companies.
Can pest control be carried out outside of business hours?
In many cases, yes. We aim to minimise disruption wherever possible and can discuss treatment scheduling options that suit your business operations, including treatments outside normal operating hours where appropriate.
Do you offer ongoing pest management plans?
Yes. We provide tailored pest management programmes designed to help businesses maintain long-term protection against pest activity.
Why is regular commercial pest control important?
Regular pest control helps protect staff, customers, stock, equipment and business reputation while reducing the risk of pest-related disruptions, contamination issues and compliance concerns.
Can you provide pest control for food businesses?
Yes. We work with a range of food-related businesses and can provide pest management solutions that support hygiene standards and compliance requirements.
How often should commercial pest control be carried out?
The ideal frequency depends on the type of business, risk level and specific requirements. We can recommend an appropriate schedule based on your premises and operating environment.
Do you service commercial properties throughout the Wellington region?
Yes. We provide commercial pest control services throughout Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua, and the Kapiti Coast.
Service Areas FAQs
What areas do you service?
Apex Pest Solutions provides pest control services throughout Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua, the Kapiti Coast and surrounding areas.
Do you provide pest control in Wellington?
Yes. We provide residential and commercial pest control services throughout Wellington and surrounding suburbs.
Do you provide pest control in Lower Hutt?
Yes. We provide residential and commercial pest control services throughout Lower Hutt and the wider Hutt Valley.
Do you provide pest control in Upper Hutt?
Yes. We provide residential and commercial pest control services throughout Upper Hutt and surrounding areas.
Do you provide pest control in Porirua?
Yes. We provide residential and commercial pest control services throughout Porirua and nearby suburbs.
Do you provide pest control services on the Kapiti Coast?
Yes. We provide residential and commercial pest control services throughout the Kapiti Coast, including Paraparaumu, Waikanae and surrouding areas.
Do you service rural properties?
Yes. We regularly provide pest control services for lifestyle blocks, farms and larger rural properties throughout the wider Wellington region.
How quickly can I book an appointment?
Appointment availability varies throughout the year, but we always aim to respond promptly and arrange service as soon as possible.
Prevention & Maintenance FAQs
How can I prevent pests from entering my home?
Keeping food sealed, reducing moisture, maintaining good housekeeping and sealing entry points can all help reduce pest activity.
What attracts pests to a property?
Food, water, warmth, shelter and easy access points are the most common attractants for pests.
Is regular pest control worth it?
Regular pest control can help prevent larger infestations, protect property and provide peace of mind throughout the year.
How often should pest inspections be carried out?
Most residential properties benefit from annual inspections, although higher-risk properties may require more frequent monitoring.
What are the most common signs of a pest problem?
Common signs include droppings, scratching noises, pest sightings, damaged materials, nesting activity and unusual odours.
Can preventative pest control save money?
Yes. Preventative treatments can help identify and address issues early, reducing the likelihood of costly infestations and property damage.
Are pest more active during certain seasons?
Many pests become more active during warmer months, although some species remain active throughout the year.
How can I reduce pest activity around my property?
Maintaining good hygiene, reducing clutter, managing rubbish, repairing leaks and keeping vegetation away from buildings can all help reduce pest acitivity.