How to Prepare Your Watford Property for End of Tenancy Flea Fumigation
At Watford Pest Exterminators, we always advise tenants and landlords that preparation is key to effective end of tenancy flea fumigation in Watford. The better the property is prepared, the more successful the treatment will be, ensuring complete eradication of fleas and their eggs — and helping tenants protect their deposit.
Steps to Prepare for Flea Fumigation
- Vacuum thoroughly: Pay extra attention to carpets, rugs, skirting boards, and under furniture. Dispose of vacuum bags immediately.
- Wash bedding and fabrics: Launder all bedding, pet bedding, curtains, and throws at 60°C where possible.
- Declutter rooms: Remove unnecessary items so technicians can access all areas of flooring and furniture.
- Move furniture: Pull furniture slightly away from walls to allow treatment around the edges of carpets.
- Seal clean items: After washing, store bedding and clothes in sealed bags to prevent recontamination.
- Remove pets: Pets and their bedding should be removed from the property before treatment begins.
- Empty bins: Dispose of household rubbish and pet waste to reduce hiding spots for pests.
Why Preparation Is Important
Fleas and their eggs can hide deep within carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring. Preparing the property ensures that our technicians can target all problem areas. Without proper preparation, some eggs may survive, risking a re-infestation after treatment.
What Happens During Treatment
Once your property is prepared, our technicians carry out a full fumigation of carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture. You’ll need to vacate the property during treatment and for a few hours afterward until it’s safe to return. At the end of the process, we provide a certificate for your landlord or letting agent as proof.
FAQs – Preparing for End of Tenancy Flea Fumigation
Q1: Do I need to wash everything in the house?
No, just bedding, curtains, and soft furnishings in affected rooms.
Q2: Should I vacuum before or after fumigation?
Vacuum thoroughly before treatment. Avoid vacuuming for at least 10–14 days after to let the treatment work fully.
Q3: Do I need to empty wardrobes and cupboards?
Not usually, unless pets have had access to these areas.
Q4: Can I leave furniture covered?
No, all furniture should be exposed so technicians can treat underneath and around it.
Q5: Do I need to remove food items?
Yes, all food should be stored securely in sealed containers or removed during treatment.
Q6: How long must I stay out of the property?
Normally for 3–4 hours, until it is safe to return.
Q7: Do you provide a checklist before the appointment?
Yes, we send a preparation checklist to all customers when booking fumigation services.