prevention-icon

Termites

prevention-icon

Ants

prevention-icon

Cockroaches

prevention-icon

Spiders

prevention-icon

Birds

prevention-icon

Bed Bugs

prevention-icon

Bees & Wasps

prevention-icon

Rats & Mice

prevention-icon

Possums

prevention-icon

Biting Insects

prevention-icon

Disinfection Services

Spider Proofing your Home and Garage

Spider Proofing your Home and Garage

by | May 17, 2024 | Blog, Spider

In cold weather, your home can provide the perfect safe haven for spiders looking for shelter and warmth.

In this Hivemind blog, we share with you 9 ways to prevent these pesky spiders from crawling around your living spaces once and for all.

What questions will this article answer?

Why are spiders attracted to my home?

Although spring is the peak season for spiders to emerge for breeding, they are drawn to the warmth and shelter of your home in cold weather. Being very small in size, they can easily crawl inside through small and easily overlooked entry points, including gaps, cracks and crevices.

Spiders will look for quiet places to hide out and lay eggs. So, if you have piles of leaf litter sitting in your yard, or less frequented areas such as sheds and garages, then spiders will actively seek out these places and make themselves at home, knowing that they won’t be disturbed.

If your home also has plenty of food sources, it’s an added bonus – for them, not you! Spiders enjoy feasting on insects such as flies, mosquitoes and moths, and in some cases, other spiders. So when you see lots of insects around, there’s a good chance that spiders won’t be too far away.

Common household spiders

Although there are an estimated 10,000 species of spiders in Australia, these are the ones that you’re most likely to encounter in your home:

Redback spiders

Easily distinguished by their bright red stripe on their upper abdomen, redback spiders are black coloured, grow up to 15mm long and are known for their venomous bites.

White tailed spiders

Dark red to grey coloured, with a characteristic white spot on the tip of their cigar-shaped body, female white tailed spiders grow up to 20mm in length, and males up to 12mm. They are nocturnal and hunt other spiders for food, including redback, daddy long legs and black house spiders.

Huntsman spiders

Grey to brown coloured with fine hairs covering their legs, huntsman spiders can grow between 6-20cm long, depending on the species.

Daddy long legs

Brown, grey or black in colour, with extremely long and thin legs giving them a fragile looking appearance, daddy long legs spiders grow between 0.7-0.9mm long.

Brown house spider

Brown to black coloured, with a rounded shape, brown house spiders can grow up to 12mm long. Also known as cupboard spiders, you may find them hiding out in undisturbed areas indoors and outdoors.

Black house spider

Dark brown to black in colour, with a charcoal grey abdomen and white markings, the black house spider can grow between 10-15mm long and loves hiding away in dark corners of your home.

What problems can a spider outbreak cause in my home?

Having a spider infestation is not a pleasant experience for you and your family members. Here are some of the reasons why you want to avoid it happening in the first place:

They can cause stress and anxiety

With arachnophobia occurring in about 5% of people, a full-blown infestation can be quite triggering and disruptive.

Some spiders have venomous bites

Most spider bites are harmless and may cause an allergic reaction at worst. However, there are certain species of venomous spiders, such as the funnel web and redback spiders, where the venom from their bites contains toxins, which require immediate medical attention from your doctor

Spider webs are messy and unhygienic

Having sticky spider webs strung up around your home can make it look untidy. If allowed to accumulate, they will collect insects, dust and pollen, and become harder to clear away.

How can I tell if I have a spider infestation?

You can spot a spider outbreak easily with the following signs:

You notice more spiders around

Although the peak season for spiders is spring, some species do seek warmth and shelter inside your home and hibernate over the cooler months. Check less frequented areas, which are perfect hiding and breeding spots for spiders, including moist environments such as drains and pipes. You may also notice them emerging from hiding spots in tiny gaps and holes.

You see many spider webs

Extensive networks of spider webs within the same space is a clear (and messy!) sign of a spider outbreak. Webs are spun differently, depending on the species of spider.

Spider burrows

Some spiders, such as wolf spiders, carve out burrows within your yard, and do not spin webs. These burrows can be found within piles of vegetation, compost, leaf litter or within soil. Don’t forget to check under rocks.

Egg sacs

Spiders can lay hundreds of eggs at a time within rounded sacs, which are suspended in silken webbing.

For effective spider management, speak to our expert team

or

8371 1277

9 ways to prevent a spider outbreak

Avoid walking into sticky webs when you least expect them with our proven spider prevention tips:

Aerosol insecticide sprays

Available from most hardware stores and supermarkets, off-the-shelf sprays are a popular spot treatment for the odd spider crawling around the house.

Homemade deterrent sprays

With sensory organs on their legs which can detect unpleasant smells, you can use strong-spelling homemade repelling sprays to keep spiders away from your home. You can fill a pump bottle with a water and vinegar mixture or use essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus or peppermint.

Spider traps

With an adhesive surface to physically trap spiders, store bought spider traps are inexpensive and can be laid out in popular spider hot spots around your home. Take care with this method if you have curious pets or young children.

Remove spider webs

Sticky spider webs can attract more spiders to the area, so we recommend clearing them away regularly with a vacuum cleaner, duster or damp cloth.

Diatomaceous earth

A silica-based naturally occurring substance, diatomaceous earth comes in a powdered form and can be sprinkled around outdoor areas around the perimeter of your home to prevent spiders from entering.

Regular garden and yard maintenance

Keeping your property tidy helps reduce all potential hiding spots for pesky spiders. Consider removing piles of vegetation, trimming away branches and bushes that are growing close to your home, mowing your lawn and making sure that spider webs are removed from pot plants. Take care to cover all outdoor furniture, equipment and shoes that aren’t in use. Store piles of wood away from your building.

Sealing all entry points

Being small in size, spiders can easily access your home by crawling through tiny spaces such as holes, gaps and cracks. Inspect your home, including the roof and around windows, and cover or fill all potential entry points. Installing mesh screens around doors and windows are also helpful in deterring spiders.

Install spider-repelling lights

Available in yellow, green or red filters, insect-repelling globes are effective at keeping many different types of creepy crawlies away from your home, including spiders.

Professional pest control

Sometimes, spider outbreaks persist, despite your best efforts to manage them. Having a trained pest control technician with the knowledge, right equipment and targeted treatments could be the best way to protect your home and family.

Protect your home from spiders, speak to an expert today

or

8371 1277

Professional spider management

Our pest control technicians have an extensive knowledge of spider species and behaviour, so we can identify and treat any spider outbreaks quickly.

Since we choose treatments that are approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, this means that all spider problems are handled safely, minimising risks to children and pets.

After an inspection and assessment of your property, we normally use targeted spider control insecticide sprays, applied to the perimeter of your building, as well as spider control dust, which is sprinkled inside hard-to-reach areas including gaps, voids, cracks and crevices

For severe outbreaks, this treatment may need to be reapplied, and your technician will let you know when this is necessary.

For safe and reliable spider control, choose Allstate

As the weather cools down and spiders seek shelter indoors, you might see more spiders around your home and garage. At Allstate, we understand how frustrating a spider outbreak can be, so we’re always here to help.

Established in 1986, we’ve successfully managed spider outbreaks across all suburbs of Adelaide. Available 24/7, our pest technicians are highly trained and fully equipped to provide urgent advice for spider problems in residential, commercial and industrial settings.

Using modern, innovative technology and treatments that are non-toxic to people, pets and the environment, all our services are covered by comprehensive warranties. Ask about our payment plans so you can get fast access to spider treatment today.

Our expert team is ready to help you now.

or

8371 1277

How to Prevent Termite Damages in Commercial Buildings

How to Prevent Termite Damages in Commercial Buildings

by | May 17, 2024 | Blog, Termites

A pest infestation in a busy commercial building or business premises is the last thing you need.

When the infestation is termites, it’s even worse. A termite outbreak can cause expensive damage, breach government safety regulations and put your tenants at risk.

Avoid attracting termites to your commercial facility with Allstate’s expert termite prevention advice in this Hivemind blog.

What questions will this article answer?

Why it’s important to avoid a termite infestation in your commercial building

Don’t be fooled by their small size! Termites can cause destruction to your property if left unchecked. Using their sharp teeth and strong jaws, they feed on cellulose by chewing through wood, paper and cardboard products. With an abundance of cellulose-based products and materials in many commercial buildings across Adelaide, they are a perfect place to satisfy the insatiable appetite of an emerging termite colony.

Found all across Australia, there are 30 species of termites which are thought to be responsible for significant damage to buildings, leaving behind repair bills which can cost building owners tens of thousands of dollars at a time.

Unfortunately, you’ll have to foot the entire bill for the repairs. Termite damage is not covered by insurance as it is considered highly preventable.

To make matters worse, structural problems in your building can place your business at risk by:

  • Compromising the safety of tenants, employees, clients and customers
  • Breaching workplace health and safety regulations, resulting in hefty penalities
  • Disrupting day-to-day operations
  • Increasing the chance of fire hazards and electrical problems
  • Damaging machinery, supplies, stock, furniture and equipment
  • Negatively impacting your business reputation

Don’t let termite activity hold your business back from flourishing. Allstate’s commercial termite management service can assist with safeguarding your facility any time.

Need termite protection? Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

Signs of a termite outbreak

Termite infestations can be difficult to identify in the early stages, and if you’re untrained in termite behaviour, it can be even harder to detect subtle clues in a busy commercial facility. Here’s what our licensed termite inspectors look for

Building damage

A clear indicator of extensive termite destruction, seeing changes to your walls, floors and ceilings means that the structural integrity of your building has been compromised. Look for cracks, blistering, warping and sagging.

Mud tubes

Irregular rows of hardened brown dirt stuck to a wall, wooden beams or foundations are one of the more obvious physical signs of termite activity. Known as mud tubes, these tunnels are made from a mixture of wood debris, dirt, saliva and droppings. They serve to protect termites from predators and prevent moisture loss as they journey from their nest to forage for food.

Clicking sounds

You may be able to hear a persistent clicking sound coming from your walls or ceilings as termites carve away inside wooden beams.

Interruptions to electrical supply

As electrical fittings and wiring are often installed in and around key wooden support structures, termite tunnels can accumulate organic material and cause electricity supply disruptions, increasing the risk of a fire hazard.

Hollow sounding wooden structures

As termites tunnel through wood and create a void in the middle, you will hear an empty, hollowed out sound when you tap on the wood.

How to avoid costly termite damage in commercial buildings

Although termites can be difficult to keep away, it’s possible to make your property a less inviting place for them to begin a colony. Here are our top recommendations to protect your commercial building from a termite outbreak:

Regular yard maintenance

Removing termites’ preferred food source, cellulose, will make your building and yard less inviting. If possible, remove unused piles of wood and tree stumps. Keeping trees and foliage well-trimmed so that they are not touching the building reduces access.

Reduce sources of moisture

Environments that are high in moisture provide ideal survival conditions for termites to survive. We recommend regularly inspecting drains, tanks, pipes and gutters for leaks and fix them as soon as possible. If you are located in an area with high levels of moisture, your property may also require more frequent termite inspections and a stronger prevention barrier.

Termite inspections

The best way to protect your commercial property is to have a highly trained, licensed professional perform regular, thorough termite inspections with the best equipment.

Yearly termite inspections are crucial

According to government recommendations, termite inspections should be carried out at least once a year, or more frequently if you’re in a high risk area.

At Allstate, we understand it’s important not to have any disruption in business hours, so we happily work outside your hours of operation.

Using modern equipment such as moisture readers, sounding tools, borescopes and movement detectors, our termite inspectors thoroughly assess all areas of your property inside and outside buildings, including walls, floors, ceilings, roof voids and subfloors. We take care to check the yard outside, particularly if you have wood piles, fencing, sleepers, lots of trees, or moisture.

Once your inspection is completed, your licensed termite inspector will send you a report with recommendations to safeguard your property. This report will highlight all potential risk factors to determine the most ideal inspection frequency for your business.

Don’t delay your termite inspection. Arrange a time with a licensed termite inspector today.

or

8371 1277

Professional termite control with Allstate

If there is evidence of termite activity found during a routine inspection, our pest control technicians use the following termite treatments to stop further damage from occurring:

Premise Treated Zones

A fast-acting termiticide spray, Premise can be applied to soil in affected areas or treatment zones for an immediate effect in serious outbreaks.

Sentricon Always Active

An effective protective barrier to stop termites from entering inside, Sentricon Always Active bait stations are installed underground, around the perimeter of buildings on your property. With a targeted termiticide embedded within each station, termites will feed on the lethal bait and take it back to their colony to pass onto other termites.

Integrated pest management for commercial buildings

At Allstate, we’ve seen the devastating consequences that a pest outbreak can have on businesses. From small to medium to large commercial facilities, our Integrated Pest Management program has been proven to successfully keep customers, employees, clients and staff safe from pests in all suburbs of Adelaide.

After an initial assessment of the premises, we’ll identify all possible risks and take into account your current pest control measures to make sure that your business is completely compliant with government standards.

With the assistance of a dedicated pest control technician who understands the needs of your business, you’ll then have a tailored pest management program put in place.

But that’s not all. To make pest control even faster and easier, you’ll have 24/7 access to your personalised pest management program via our online pest control portal.

There, you’ll find all inspection reports, compliance documentation and a copy of your pest management plan in one convenient place. As an added bonus, you can report any new problems immediately and receive a fast response from your assigned pest control technician.

If you’re a busy property manager, Allstate offers modern, personalised pest control solutions for property managers to make your job easier.

For long-lasting termite management solutions, contact Allstate today.

or

8371 1277

Choose Allstate for reliable and safe termite management

Termite outbreaks can result in serious and expensive problems for commercial properties, and it’s clear that they are best avoided in the first place.

For almost 40 years, Allstate has managed and prevented termite infestations in all suburbs of Adelaide. Available 24/7 for all urgent enquiries and advice, we offer comprehensive termite inspections performed by licensed termite inspectors, as well as effective, targeted nontoxic treatments.

No matter the size or location of your commercial building, the industry or the number of tenants and employees, we can tailor an Integrated Pest Management program for your unique circumstances and keep termites away for good.

Our expert team is ready to help you now.

or

8371 1277

How To Stop Possum Problems in your Backyard

How To Stop Possum Problems in your Backyard

by | Apr 16, 2024 | Blog, Possum

A notorious pest for many gardening enthusiasts, possums have a huge appetite for numerous types of plants, fruits and vegetables growing in your yard. Keen to stick around, chances are their closest nesting spot is inside your roof!

Avoid having noisy, messy and smelly possums in your backyard in this Hivemind article.

What questions will this article answer?

Problems caused by possums in backyards

Although they look cute and cuddly, possums are nuisance if they choose to nest in your backyard.

A gardening enthusiast’s nightmare, possums will damage your yard by eating a wide variety fruits and vegetables, including apples, corn, lettuce, broccoli and bananas, as well as flowers, herbs, bark and eucalyptus leaves. They also eat grains, bread, eggs, and occasionally small lizards and birds. You may even find possums rummaging through your rubbish bin looking for food scraps.

Once they enter your yard, they may also look for food, shelter and nesting spots inside your home, particularly in times of extreme weather conditions, by entering your roof space through access points. Once they come indoors, they can be messy, noisy and smelly.

If you manage to come face to face with a possum in your house, you might even find them to be quite aggressive, so watch out!

Signs of a possum problem

Here’s how to tell if you have possums in your yard:

Noises at night

As nocturnal animals, possums are most active after dark. So if you hear sounds like hissing, coughing and screeching outside, there’s a good chance you could have possums hanging around.

Movement

Agile and good at climbing, possums will make banging and thudding sounds as they scurry along your fence, roof, gutters and tree branches.

Droppings

Possums leave behind faeces that are cylindrical shaped, dark in colour and around 15mm long.

Urine

If you spot large puddles or stains that give off an ammonia-like scent, this could be the work of possums.

Damage to gutters

Look for scratches, dents or mould along your gutters.

For fast possum advice, speak to our expert team

or

8371 1277

How to prevent possum problems in your backyard

While it’s common to have the occasional possum pass through your yard, you’ll want to avoid a full-blown possum problem. Here are some tips to keep them away:

Remove attractants

If there is less food available in your yard, possums will be less interested in hanging around. This means not feeding the possums, or considering having fewer plants. Otherwise, dispose of fallen and rotten fruit and vegetables, and make sure that bins and rubbish are tightly sealed and secured. Keep pet food indoors if possible, and ensure that outdoor tables, food preparation areas, barbecues and ovens are clean.

Regular yard maintenance

Large trees with overhanging branches provide possums with easier access to your yard as well as your home. They can also harbour cosy nesting spots. We recommend keeping foliage trimmed as much as possible, and fix dislodged roof tiles. If you spot entry points to your roof, we recommend proofing them off immediately.

Physical deterrents

Sometimes, a screen or barrier is needed to keep possums out of your yard. Bird spikes may also be effective in high traffic areas.

Possum repellents

Having a pet such as a dog or cat can be handy as they are considered as predators. You can install motion sensitive lights and sprinklers. Strongly scented items with an unpleasant odour to possums can also be scattered around your yard, including garlic and mothballs, to deter possums.

Protect your yard from possums. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

Professional possum control

If you’re noticing a possum problem around your home and yard, it’s not just a simple case of catching and moving the possum somewhere else by yourself.

Possum relocation permits

Regarded as protected wildlife in South Australia, possums can only be managed by individuals who have a Trap and Release permit issued by the Department for Environment and Heritage. This permit allows possums to be caught and relocated to another area within a 50m radius.

Don’t forget to inspect potted plants, mulch, hay and manure for signs of fire ants.

Cover all entry points

Being small in size, fire ants can squeeze through tiny gaps, cracks, crevices and holes to gain access inside your home. We recommend carefully inspecting your home for these tiny openings and sealing them off.

Allstate’s 6-step possum management program

At Allstate, our technicians are fully licensed with Trap and Release permits to control all possum issues.
Our technicians have a comprehensive approach to making sure that your home and yard stay possum-free for the long term. We follow a 6-step humane possum management program as detailed below:

  • Step 1: We inspect your home, particularly the roof, for all possible entry points
  • Step 2: We install a one-way door at the main access point
  • Step 3: We seal the remaining entry points to prevent possums from re-entering your roof space
  • Step 4: We leave a cage trap near the main access point to trap any possums. Our technicians will check the trap daily to make sure that the possum is safe and to minimise stress
  • Step 5: Once the possum (or possums) have been caught, we will clean the roof space to remove all possum scent pheromone markers
  • Step 6: The final step involves setting up a nesting box on a tree within 50m of your yard to give the possum a new home

 

Sometimes, the noises you hear in your roof turn out not to be possums, but rodents or birds. Fortunately, your Allstate technician is well trained to look out for signs of other pests, and will let always you know if they spot any other issues.

Choose Allstate for safe and reliable possum management

Having possums running around your yard can be both disruptive and destructive, so having professional assistance to quickly control an outbreak is extremely useful.

That’s why you can rely on Allstate for fast and effective professional possum removal at any time. We’re available 24/7 to all suburbs of Adelaide to manage possum problems of any size in residential, commercial and industrial settings.

Our technicians are fully equipped and highly trained to handle possums with a humane approach that is in line with Government regulations.

We offer payment plans to help you safeguard your home and yard with our effective possum management solutions, so do not hesitate to reach out to us anytime.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

or

8371 1277

Your Guide To Fire Ant Control

Your Guide To Fire Ant Control

by | Apr 5, 2024 | Ants, Blog

Introduced to Australia over 20 years ago, fire ants are known for their painful stings. A serious agricultural pest, they will eat anything from plants, insects and decomposing animals to food staples in your kitchen. Avoid getting stung by feisty fire ants by reading our latest Hivemind article.

What questions will this article answer?

What is a fire ant?

Native to South America, but introduced to Australia over 20 years ago, fire ants are considered a serious agricultural pest.

They are reddish-brown coloured, with a rear segment that is usually dark brown and can range from 2-6mm in size, depending on their role in the colony. Winged fire ants can fly up to 5km away from the nest to expand the colony.

Known to feed on various crops including corn and soy, fire ants also have an appetite for okra, potato tubers and citrus fruit. However, these hungry insects are experts at scavenging insects, honeydew produced by aphids, flies, fly larvae, decomposing animals, seeds, as well as oily and sugary products.

With a unique behaviour of swarming their prey, they have strong jaws to secure their victims, and use painful stingers to inject venom. They can be particularly aggressive if their nest is disturbed, and are able to sting multiple times.

Fire ants can survive all year long, in climates that range from below freezing, to the relentless heat of droughts and even high rainfall.

Problems caused by fire ants

Although they are small, fire ants can cause a range of big problems. Here’s how:

Damage to your garden

With a big appetite for plants in your garden, fire ants feeds on plants such as corn and germinating seeds, potato tubers, okra and citrus fruit.

Disrupting outdoor activities

With the potential for venomous stings, you and your family will want to avoid disturbing fire ants and their mounds when outside. They can quickly swarm and sting their victims multiple times, especially when they feel threatened.

Painful stings

When stung by a fire ant, you may experience pain and a burning sensation, and be left with a swollen welt.

Allergic reactions

In some people, fire ant venom can trigger allergies, causing itchy rashes, and even possibly anaphylactic reactions.

Contamination

With their unhygienic foraging habits, fire ants will eat anything from decomposing dead animals, animal waste to food in your pantry. They will look for food and water from toilets, drains and sewers, as well as your kitchen sink. This means that they can potentially collect and spread a range of bacteria, germs and diseases inside your home, including salmonella, E.coli, fungi and staphylococcus and streptococcus infections.

Disturbing the ecosystem

With their aggressive behaviour, fire ants have been known to threaten native species of ants, dominating and disrupting the ecological balance of your yard over time.

Keep your family safe from fire ants. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

How to identify a fire ant outbreak

Getting stung is definitely not pleasant, so it’s important know how to spot a fire ant infestation as quickly as possible. Here are the most common signs that you may have a fire ant problem:

You’re noticing a lot of fire ants around

If there’s more fire ants than usual, especially if they’ve managed to make it indoors, there’s a good chance that you may have an infestation on your hands.

Ant trails

If you see fire ants marching in lines along a well-defined path, this means that fire ants are foraging for food and living in a nest nearby, typically within 30m away.

Fire ant mounds

Found out in the open and resembling piles of disturbed dirt, with a flat or rounded top, fire ant nests can reach between 30-40cm high and 30-90cm in diameter. Unlike other ant species, there isn’t a clear hole or entry point at the apex.

Fire ants usually enter and exit their nest through underground tunnels with entry points that may be up to 30 feet away from the mound.

Depending on the weather, fire ant nests can look different. In warm climates or during drought, their nests might appear as small areas of loose soil. When the temperature drops, or there is rainfall, their nests may be more obvious and look larger in size.

Droppings

You may notice small granules, like sand or coffee grounds, which are brown, beige or black in colour scattered around your home or yard.

Ways to prevent a fire ant infestation

We recommend the following tasks to help you prevent fire ants from setting up a nest in your yard.

Regular yard maintenance

Clear away fallen or rotten fruit and vegetables, and keep plants, bushes and vegetation neatly trimmed, particularly ones that are growing near your home. Remove piles of debris and leaves and keep your lawns tidy to reduce hiding spots. Make sure that rubbish bins are tightly sealed, secured and covered.

Don’t forget to inspect potted plants, mulch, hay and manure for signs of fire ants.

Cover all entry points

Being small in size, fire ants can squeeze through tiny gaps, cracks, crevices and holes to gain access inside your home. We recommend carefully inspecting your home for these tiny openings and sealing them off.

Remove access to food and water

Fire ants can detect resources from a long distance away, so it’s best to keep food stored away, and avoid leaving bowls of water out in the open for long periods. This includes pet food. Keep your home clean by wiping down tabletops, benchtops, stoves and sinks after use, and clear away dirty dishes. Immediately clean up spills, remove crumbs from floors and furniture by vacuuming, mopping and sweeping.

Ant baits

There are several readily available products to protect your home from being invaded by fire ants. These are available from your local hardware store, and can include ant baits and insecticide sprays.

For expert advice on managing fire ants, contact Allstate today

or

8371 1277

Professional fire ant control

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a fire ant outbreak can be hard to manage without professional assistance. At Allstate, we have a range of targeted treatments, which are approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) for safe use around your home.

Fire ant baits

Once consumed by foraging fire ants, the insecticide-laced bait is taken back to the colony and transmitted to other ants to destroy the colony.
Soaked in soybean oil, these baits are made of 1-2mm sized granules of corn grit and can be sprinkled near the nest itself, or scattered around the yard. Depending on the extent of the outbreak, way may use different types of baits. They contain the following chemical ingredients to stop ants in their tracks:

  • Insect growth regulator baits are made from s-methoprene or pyriproxyfen. They are effective in reducing the ant population by stopping their life cycle and can take up to 3-4 months to have their full effect
  • Fast acting insecticide usually consists of indoxacarb or hydramethylnon and pyriproxyfen. It typically takes only 1-4 weeks to reach their maximum effect

 

Direct nest injection

As the name suggests, we can directly apply fipronil, a strong insecticide liquid, to fill all the chambers of the fire ant nest as a fast solution to treat an outbreak. However, the treated area must not be disturbed for 24 hours, and the ground and its surrounds must remain dry and undisturbed for at least 7 days.

Choose Allstate for effective and long-lasting fire ant control

With your calendar filled with all sorts of outdoor activities to enjoy the last of the warm weather, there’s nothing worse than having the threat of a fire ant outbreak to spoil the fun. At Allstate, we’re here to help protect you and your family from fire ants.

Since 1986, Allstate has helped thousands of homes, businesses and industrial properties prevent and treat pest outbreaks. Available 24/7 to all suburbs of Adelaide, our highly trained and fully equipped pest technicians use innovative solutions and treatments which are safe for children, pets and the environment.

With payment plans available, you won’t need to delay any urgent fire ant treatment anymore. Ask one of our friendly pest consultants for reliable advice at any time.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

or

8371 1277

What do termite inspectors look for?

What do termite inspectors look for?

by | Feb 21, 2024 | Blog, Termites

Although they are a threat all year round, termite outbreaks can be hard to detect. In fact, termites are thought to affect 1 in 5 houses in Adelaide, and cause thousands of dollars in damage that unfortunately isn’t covered by insurance. Learn how licensed termite inspectors identify the subtle signs of an outbreak in this Hivemind article.

What questions will this article answer?

Why are termite inspections important?

A notorious pest in Australia, termites are estimated to cause over $100 million in damage to homes every year, affecting 1 in 5 houses in Adelaide.

Sadly, as termite-related damage is considered to be preventable, it is not covered by home and contents insurance.

That’s why government guidelines recommend termite inspections at least once a year, and more frequently if your property is at higher risk of an outbreak.

Since the cost of a termite inspection is much lower than price of repairs, it’s worth making sure that your home stays protected.

At Allstate, our comprehensive termite inspections start at $200 per visit and are conducted by our fully licensed inspectors who will send you a report documenting all their findings.

Signs of a termite outbreak

Unless you have a severe infestation on your hands, it can be hard to tell if you have a termite problem.

At Allstate, our professional termite inspectors have experience, extensive training and the right tools to recognise the subtle hints of a termite outbreak. Here are examples of early signs of termites:

Damage to walls, floors, skirting boards, beams and ceilings

Wooden structures inside your home are vulnerable to termites, and you may notice cracks, blisters, warping and sagging. Paint might appear to have bubbling or have water-stain marks.

Damage to trees, outdoor wooden structures, sleepers and furniture

Some species of termites prefer living in tree stumps and wooden structures above the ground, hollowing out the wood inside. This means that trees and branches may topple, and sleepers may crumble, potentially causing a hazard.

Hollow sounds in timber

If you knock or tap your walls and hear an empty, hollow sound, this could be due to termites tunnelling through the insides of the timber.

Mud tubes

Subterranean termites build tunnels to protect them when they are foraging for food away from their nests, which are located underground. These tunnels are usually made of a mixture of saliva, dirt, wood and other debris and provide a safe pathway to travel.

Clicking sounds in the wall

As termites tunnel through wood, they make clicking sounds with their constantly chewing jaws and teeth. Soldier termites are known to knock their heads on wood to make clicking noises and warn other termites of impending danger.

Termite wings

Winged termites or swarmers leave the colony every few years when it is ready to expand, and start a new one elsewhere. They’ll find an old tree stump or wood pile to create a nest. After mating, they will lose their wings, and you may see these accumulating around your windows and doors.

Termite droppings

If you notice a build up of a fine, dark, powdery substance on your floors, this could be due to a termite outbreak.

Tiny holes in wooden structures

These could be entry points for termites.

Windows and doors become hard to open

Termite activity can increase the amount of heat and moisture within affected structures, such as window and doorframes, and result in expansion. This can mean that doors and windows become hard to open.

Handle termites fast. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

Types of termites

It’s helpful to know what types of termites are responsible for a termite outbreak, as they all behave differently. This can help us come up with a targeted treatment plan that effectively preventes the termites at their source, as quickly as possible.

Subterranean termites

With a preference to nest underground as their name suggests, subterranean termites thrive in moist conditions. They are 1/8 to 1 inch long and yellow to dark brown in colour. You can also find them in trees, dead stumps, and buried wooden poles and sleepers.

Dampwood termites

Found mainly in moist areas with decaying wood, dampwood termites thrive in tree stumps, logs and buried wooden poles such as fence posts. They are usually 1/2 to 5/8 inches long, with a creamy white to brown colouring.

Flying termites

Also known as swarmers, you’ll know that there is a mature colony within 100m if you see winged termites.

What happens during a termite inspection?

No matter the size of your property, your licensed Allstate termite inspector always has the right tools and knowledge conduct a thorough assessment inside and outside. They will also assess how well your current termite protection system is working.

Termite detection equipment

To help identify early signs of a termite outbreak, our termite inspectors use the following devices:

  • Borescopes assist with taking photographic evidence of termite activity within timber structures
  • Moisture meters can pinpoint areas with a higher than normal moisture content
  • Movement detectors can locate active termites
  • Sounding tools are tapped against timber structures to check their integrity

Physical inspection

Our termite inspectors will pay close attention to the following areas of your property, which are known to be popular spots for termite activity:

  • Timber beams
  • Interior rooms, covering the walls, floors, ceilings, door and window frames, skirting boards and cupboards
  • Subfloors
  • Outdoor/yard inspection, including the perimeter of the house, garden beds, sleepers, woodpiles, trees, stumps and wooden fencing
  • Interior and exterior sections of outbuildings

Don’t delay your termite inspection. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

Professional termite prevention

Treating a termite outbreak happens over a period of time and requires patience. At Allstate, we use modern treatments with a proven effectiveness against termites.

Sentricon Always Active bait stations

Positioned 30cm away from your house, with each station 3m apart, Sentricon bait rods are positioned underground. They are laced with a termiticide that doesn’t harm pets or other wildlife, making them both safe and environmentally friendly.

Premise liquid spray

For large areas that have a significant amount of termite activity, we recommend a residual treatment spray as a fast and effective option to remove termites.

Choose Allstate for reliable and long-lasting termite protection

A termite outbreak can be stressful and expensive to fix, so we understand how important it is to prevent it from happening in the first place. That’s why yearly inspections by licensed termite inspectors can be extremely valuable.

Established in 1986, Allstate has been carrying out comprehensive termite inspections in homes and businesses across all suburbs of Adelaide for over 35 years. Using modern technology, our team is fully equipped and highly trained to assess properties of all sizes, inside and out.

Available 24/7 for urgent callouts, our inspections are covered by competitive warranties. You can even arrange for a payment plan, so there’s no need to delay your next termite inspection. Safeguard your home from termites today.

Our expert team is ready to help you now.

or

8371 1277

Cockroach control for distribution facilities

Cockroach control for distribution facilities

by | Feb 21, 2024 | Blog, Cockroach

No matter if it’s summer or winter, cockroaches are tough pests that are capable of surviving in any environment. With distribution facilities providing plenty of shelter, food and water, they provide ideal conditions for pesky cockroaches to spread germs and cause damage. Avoid a cockroach outbreak at your distribution facility with our tips in this Hivemind article.

What questions will this article answer?

Why are cockroaches attracted to distribution facilities?

Cockroaches are tough insects capable of thriving in a range of different conditions. They will look for shelter, warmth, food, water and quiet hiding spots to nest and breed all year round. With distribution facilities providing all these resources, it’s not hard to see why your facility could fall victim to a potential outbreak.

As the cockroach peak breeding season is summer, they’re often on the prowl for quiet hiding spots to lay eggs in the warmer months. However, cockroaches are just as likely to use the same places to hibernate in winter.

With a wide-ranging diet that consists of many organic and inorganic materials that are found in distribution facilities, they have easy access to food sources. These include paper, leather, fabric, cardboard, grease and starch found in packaging and transport products and of course, stock.

If your facility has wet areas or a high moisture environment, this can also entice cockroaches, which can often be found living in drains.

Common cockroach species

While cockroaches have wings, some species are not often airborne. This can have an impact on how we manage outbreaks. Here’s how to identify the most frequently sighted types of cockroaches in Australia:

American cockroach

They are reddish brown in colour and 35 to 40mm long.

German cockroach

Brown to dark brown coloured and 1 to -16mm long, they have 2 dark stripes along thorax. While they have wings, they rarely fly.

Australian cockroach

Ranging from 23 to 35mm long, they are brown coloured with pale stripes on their head.

Oriental cockroach

They tend to be dark brown to black coloured and 22 to 27mm long.

Problems caused by cockroaches

A notorious pest in industrial facilities, cockroaches can be found in many different places and cause disruption to your workplace. Here’s how:

Contaminate food and surfaces

Due to their unhygienic foraging habits, cockroaches collect germs and spread them along their travels.

Spread diseases

Your workplace could be at risk of illnesses such as gastroenteritis, salmonella, dysentery, typhoid fever, cholera, hepatitis A and leprosy.

Penalties for non-compliance to industrial health and safety standards

Breaching regulations can result in hefty financial penalties and affect your ability to trade as a business.

Damage to business reputation and operations

Clients, customers, employees and contractors will be deterred from attending your facility if there is a known cockroach outbreak.

Damage packaging, belongings, furniture, stock and furniture

Cockroaches have sharp teeth and strong jaws, which can chew through a wide range of materials found in distribution facilities, including grease, starch, plastic, leather goods, clothing, furniture and paper and cardboard.

Trigger allergies

With a known allergen called tropomyosin found in their droppings, and sometimes even parasitic worms, cockroaches can trigger asthma and eczema in employees and customers.

They are messy

Cockroaches leaving their droppings, eggs, moulted skins all around the workplace. This can make the floor slippery and unsafe. Their droppings also contain pheromones to attract more cockroaches to the area and make outbreaks even worse.

Manage cockroaches fast, speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

Signs of a cockroach outbreak

Look out for the following clues to know if you have a cockroach infestation on your hands:

You see live cockroaches

Typically nocturnal pests, if you see cockroaches in the daytime, this means that there’s a good chance that there are many more hidden away.

Droppings

Similar in appearance to coffee grounds, cockroach droppings are black, variable in length and less than 1mm wide.

Egg capsules

Cockroaches laying eggs means that it won’t be long before the population multiplies. Eggs can look different depending on the species of cockroach.

Moulted skins

Throughout their life cycle, cockroaches shed their outer layer as they grow in size. So, if you see skin shedding fragments around, this means that there could well be an outbreak.

Unpleasant odour

Cockroach droppings give off a musty odour that intensifies as the infestation worsens.

How to prevent cockroaches in distribution facilities

When it comes to outbreaks, cockroach prevention is far better than cure. We recommend the considering the following tips as part of your pest management plan:

Regular building maintenance

Building inspections are helpful to identify all possible entry points. By sealing them off, you can stop cockroaches from squeezing through very small gaps.

Check and repair all leaking pipes, faucets and drains as moisture attracts cockroaches.

Regularly clean and sanitise

For food preparation surfaces and food storage areas, good hygiene practices are key.

Remove all spilled food items and wipe down food preparation areas thoroughly. Consider disinfection as well.

Don’t forget to clean less frequently used areas and other potential hiding spots for cockroaches, including behind or underneath shelving and pallets.

Keep all food tightly sealed and properly stored away

Check that lids are secured tightly and all food packaging is intact.

Ensure all waste is properly disposed of

Make sure that lids are properly fitting and rubbish is tightly sealed off in bags.

Don’t delay cockroach treatment, get expert advice today

or

8371 1277

Professional Cockroach Control

All our pest control technicians are certified and compliant with Australian standards, including Food Safety Standard HACCP and Quality Standard ISO 9001. We use the following methods to control a cockroach outbreak:

Cockroach bait

Baits contain insecticide in a solid, liquid or gel form. They are strategically placed close to established nesting areas and feeding sites.

Insecticide Spray

Applied to the perimeters of the affected building, an insecticide spray acts as a deterrent for cockroaches to enter the building from outside.

Cockroach control dust

For hard to reach places, especially small spaces such as cracks and crevices, which are popular hiding spots for cockroaches, we sprinkle insecticide granules.

Fumigation

Usually used alongside other methods, this is effective for more serious infestations in a confined space. We’ll seal off the area before applying the treatment.

Heat treatment

This is a chemical free and the most environmentally friendly method for cockroach prevention. Dry heat of between 50-60 degrees Celsius is delivered using a mobile system to prevente cockroaches at any stage of their life cycle.

Integrated pest management for distribution facilities

For over 35 years, we have partnered with many businesses to prevent all unwanted pest outbreaks. Our Integrated Pest Management System plays an important role in keeping staff, clients, customers and workplaces safe all across Adelaide.

With a dedicated pest control technician assigned to your facility, to perform an initial inspection, we will thoroughly check for any risks, current pest control measures and learn how your business operates. This information will help us to come up with a personalised Pest Management program for your facility.

Using our 24/7 online portal you’ll be able to access, manage and update your Pest Management Program. This includes all compliance documentation, your pest management strategy and inspection reports. You’ll be able to report any new concerns immediately. Our tailored approach makes it easy for you to alert your assigned pest control technician to any new issues and receive accurate advice as quickly as possible.

For up-to-date pest control technology at your fingertips, contact Allstate today.

Choose Allstate for safe and effective cockroach management

At Allstate, we understand how devastating cockroach outbreaks can be in large, busy distribution facilities. We have the experience to help you come up with an effective pest management program to protect your business from cockroaches, allowing you to redirect your time and energy into other important matters.

Since 1986, we have helped businesses in all suburbs of Adelaide with pest control services. Whether you have a small or large facility, our technicians are equipped with the latest in pest control technology to keep all pests out. Available 24/7 for urgent enquiries, we also offer flexible appointment times to minimise disruption to your day to day operations.

Our treatments are non-toxic to people and the environment, and covered by competitive warranties.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

or

8371 1277