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Allstate’s new values allow them to preach what they practice to new recruits

Allstate’s new values allow them to preach what they practice to new recruits

by | Apr 14, 2021 | Blog, news

Adelaide’s largest family-owned pest control company has thrived on the vision, hard work and passion of its people for 35 years. Now that Allstate is facing unprecedented growth, these naturally occurring attributes have been turned into official values, so that the exemplary culture that built the business is reflected in every employee.

Our Values

Kick tail, and be proud of it

Everything we do here is based on uncompromising excellence. This includes our service, our knowledge, and our treatment of customers and each other. This level of excellence relies on individual ownership – each of us takes pride in our work by striving to do the best job we possibly can.

Own your mistakes and learn from them

Mistakes happen – we’re human. What matters is that if any of us makes one, we immediately put our hand up and admit to it, then get whatever support we need to resolve it as quickly as possible. We each treat every one of our mistakes as an opportunity to improve.

We over me

Allstate succeeds when everyone – whether on the road or in the office – pulls together to get things done. We have just as much respect for the needs of our teammates as we do for our own, and we all have a responsibility to ensure everyone in the Allstate family feels supported and heard.

If it matters to the customer, it matters to us

Our customers are Allstate, so we treat them and their property with the utmost respect. We do everything we can to give them the best experience possible: ‘going the extra mile’ doesn’t exist in our vocabulary – it’s just what we do.

If you’re not growing, you’re dying

We are continually evolving and adapting to stay as efficient and effective as we possibly can. We seize every opportunity to get better and look ahead to solve next week’s problems now.
Allstate Pest Control has long been known for its top-level customer service, and its people are proud of their close-knit team culture. But whilst Allstate’s values have evolved organically, the company’s unprecedented growth meant it was time they were set in stone.

“Our growth has kicked up over the last 18 months; in that time we have increased employee numbers from 35 to 55 with no sign of slowing down,” said second-generation CEO Vasili Tsousouras.

“Putting these values into words ensures we have 100% commitment to them by every single person in the company.”

“We use them in the hiring, onboarding and induction process so that when a new person joins the team, they know our values back to front before they’ve set foot in the door.”

Allstate’s newly written values are also integral to keeping established employees on track.

“Between our new rewards and recognition program and our performance management reviews, every goal is set against a value, so we can ensure each team member is upholding the values and is acknowledged when they are,” Vasili enthused.

“For example, one of our values is ‘We Over Me’, and so when a person shows they are more about the team than themselves they get recognised for it.”

“Or when we assess performance against the value ‘Own Your Mistakes And Learn From Them’, we acknowledge people for taking constructive criticism as an opportunity to learn.”

Allstate’s values were created in conjunction with people from all areas of the company to ensure they were a true reflection of the business.

“These values are who we are, and we now have a means of ensuring they are practiced by everyone,” Vasili said proudly.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

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8371 1277

The Ultimate Bird Control Guide in Adelaide

The Ultimate Bird Control Guide in Adelaide

by | Mar 25, 2021 | Bird Control, Blog

YOUR GUIDE TO BIRD CONTROL IN ADELAIDE

Pest birds roosting around your home or business is no chirping matter. Besides being messy and noisy, they spread infections and parasites from mites to salmonella.

Do you have concerns about pest birds? Read our handy bird control guide to help.

At best, they’re a nuisance. At worst, a health hazard or business risk. Having pest birds roosting around your home or business premises is no chirping matter.

Besides being noisy, the mess from their feathers and droppings can cause lasting damage to property and buildings, or create the need for costly repairs. What’s more, they carry and spread a range of infections and parasites, from mites to salmonella. No wonder pest birds are bad news for your home, and even worse for businesses.

If you have concerns about pest birds or pigeons, the issues they can cause, or you want to know more about how to deter or prevente them, here is some useful information to help.

What questions will this article answer?

Common behaviours of pest birds (especially pigeons)

There are a handful of well-known pest birds in Australia, but pigeons are the most notorious of them all. Let’s understand how they became this way.

Pigeons are easily identified by their blue-grey coloured feathers, white rump and black bars across their wings and tail. They are semi-domesticated creatures who are very comfortable around people and in urban environments. These are just some of the reasons that they possess excellent survival instincts:

They are well adapted
Our homes and businesses offer excellent conditions for pigeons to roost and nest, such as:

  • A good water supply from unsealed water tanks, ponds, gutters, rooftops.
  • Warmth and shelter from rooftops solar panels, fans, electric transformers and heating units. Sometimes, they are even able to locate an access point to enter a roof space.

They come in large numbers
Many pigeons will often band and stay together as a flock.

They are excellent scavengers
Having a diverse diet enables them to take advantage of almost any available food source. They are good at competing against native birds for food.

They are determined to live in their preferred place
Because of their strong inbuilt homing instinct, pigeons become attached to living near to their birthplace, making them very reluctant to move on to another site. This makes it hard to discourage them from returning to your home or business.

They reproduce quickly
Female pigeons can produce about 15 eggs per year, with a short incubation period of only 18 days. So, a small flock can easily become a large one.

They don’t always need a nest to lay eggs
They can simply lay eggs on a bare surface.

Problems caused by pigeons

Pigeons usually aren’t shy, and if they have taken over new territory nearby you’ll notice the following signs:

Aggressive behaviour
They can sometimes attack people, particularly during breeding season when they are defending their young.

Noise
Particularly cries from young chicks. The sounds of many birds roosting and nesting together is disruptive and disturbing in an otherwise peaceful environment.

Native bird displacement
Due to their dominant nature, pest birds will drive away other bird species who are less able to compete for food and nesting sites.

Damage to gardens and plants
They enjoy feasting on fruit, flowers, produce and stored grain.

Problems caused by pest birds

Birds may be small, but an outbreak can cause major headaches. Most bird-related issues are caused by their droppings, but can also result from parasites in their feathers and their general roosting patterns.

Building discolouration
The white-brown colour and thick consistency can tarnish the appearance of buildings, including windows, ledges, walls, balconies and surrounding footpaths of homes and businesses.

Property damage

  • Rust and deterioration of paint on buildings, cars, roof top machinery (airconditioners, and solar panels), gutters and the roof itself. This is from the uric acid in bird droppings, which is a highly corrosive compound.
  • Corrosion of construction materials such as limestone and calciferous sandstone. This is caused by a fungus carried in pigeon droppings
  • Damage inside your property. Bird droppings can end up on support structures as well as uncovered stock, supplies, food, machinery, tools and clothing.

Parasites
Birds carry parasites in their droppings and feathers, which include a huge host of insects, from bed bugs and beetles, to clothes moths, mites and ticks. Many of these parasites will cover their new human host with tiny bites, and are capable of triggering allergies.

Moist bird droppings also attract flies and enable breeding to initiate a secondary insect outbreak.

Disease
Birds spread disease-causing bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. These can give you the flu, gastroenteritis, or even more serious illnesses requiring hospital stays, including:

  • Salmonella poisoning
  • Ornithosis
  • Bird fancier’s lung
  • Cryptococcosis
  • E-coli infection
  • Histoplasmosis
  • Newcastle disease
  • Encephalitis
  • Aspergillosis
  • Toxoplasmosis

Contamination of food, supplies and water
This occurs from:

  • Bird pecking
  • Droppings
  • Feathers
  • Debris from birds’ nests and dead birds

Safety hazards
Fresh bird droppings are wet and slippery, and hazardous to pedestrians walking along footpaths, steps and fire escapes.

Water damage
Droppings and debris from roosting birds accumulate along gutters and downpipes. If left unattended to, the build-up and blockages can result in water overflow and subsequent roof leakages.

If you are worried that pest birds are causing any of the above problems around your home, do not hesitate to contact our bird control team.

Speak to a bird control expert today

or

8371 1277

Bird Problems in Businesses

Pest birds usually gain access inside commercial buildings through loading bay areas and damaged roofing. To avoid this, you should proactively inspect for birds and seal off entry points as part of regular building maintenance. At Allstate, we can assist many types of businesses with bird control in Adelaide.

Distribution facilities

Pest birds flying around a distribution facility are a dangerous distraction while operating heavy machinery. They can ruin stock and supplies, particularly if goods are not properly covered. Their droppings are a hygiene problem that can make staff and contractors sick and become a workplace slipping hazard. A failure to comply with industrial health and safety standards can result in heavy fines.

Read more about birds in warehouses and distribution facilities

Shopping and retail centres

With many food service businesses occupying the same space, including cafes, food courts, butchers and supermarkets, there is a great opportunity for pest birds to take advantage of readily available food and scraps. To make matters worse, there are often numerous entry points and customers who feed birds and leave unwanted food out in the open. A pest bird outbreak can contaminate food, supplies and preparation surfaces, and become an unwelcome distraction to employees, customers and other retailers. It can also result in costly penalties for failing to meet food regulatory and safety standards, damage your reputation and turn customers away.

Read more about birds in retail centres

Commercial buildings, offices and service facilities

Pest birds will not only cause widespread disruption to the operations within a commercial building. A failure to meet health and safety standards can damage the reputation for all the offices, businesses and service providers located inside as well.

Large and tall buildings

Pest birds such as pigeons are used to living in high places, and can settle in bigger complexes which consist of many offices and businesses connected by multiple entry points and lifts, infrequently used stairwells, an extensive network of ducts and vents, and complex supply chains. An outbreak may lead to major structural damage requiring expensive repairs, and compromise health and safety for many people working in the building.

Read more about birds in commercial buildings

Service facilities

Facilities which are often used by the more vulnerable members of our community, such as schools, child care centres, nursing homes and hospitals can also be targeted by pest birds. They can introduce a variety of germs and parasites which cause devastating health effects.

Read more about birds in aged care
Read more about birds in schools

Speak to one of our rodent prevention experts today

or

8371 1277

Bird control methods in Adelaide

At Allstate, we understand how persistent pest birds can be, so we often use a combination of techniques to control an outbreak. Our expert bird removal technicians take care to treat the birds humanely throughout the process.

As part of our bird control solutions for both homes and businesses, we may recommend the following prevention and removal strategies:

Remove all sources of food and water from the site
This is the first step to controlling a pest bird outbreak.

Bird netting
Nets are a useful, non-harmful physical deterrent to control high level bird outbreaks. They can easily be placed into custom made frames or manipulated in any direction to fit areas of various shapes and dimensions. They come in different colours and sizes (we have 19mm, 50mm and 75mm).

Bird spikes
Spikes create an insecure area for landing, so are an effective way to prevent birds from gathering in their favourite roosting position to oversee their territory, usually on the leading edges of buildings. This includes exposed ledges, sills, steel beams, chimneys and girders.

There are different types of bird spikes to suit your home or business, such as translucent, polycarbonate, steel, girder and gutter. They come in a range of sizes, shapes and all have UV protection so they last longer. Rest assured that they are not sharp and will not cause physical injury to the birds (or installers).

Bird Jolt Flat Track system
This discreet, solar or A.C. powered electric deterrent delivers birds a mild electric shock every time they land on its surface, and eventually conditions them to stay away. It can be installed on any surface due to its flexible PVC base, and has in-built UV protection for longevity. As it stands only ¼ of an inch high, it is a popular solution for areas where you need a less noticeable deterrent.

Bird wire
We will sometimes secure UV-protected stainless steel wires between plastic posts to act as an unstable landing platform. This deters birds from landing on leading edges of buildings, including exposed ledges, steel beams, sills and girders. This discreet technique is best suited to new buildings.

Bird trapping
This is a handy solution for controlling a large outbreak. Over several days, birds are gradually baited with food to enter a cage trap. Eventually, when the trap fills with birds, they are removed from your property. At Allstate, rest assured that our approach towards the birds is humane, and we provide adequate food, water and shelter while they are in the cage.

Bird shooting
Pest birds are very persistent and breed quickly. In situations where deterrent techniques have failed, sometimes there is no choice but to take more drastic action. Allstate has technicians who are fully licensed to safely and responsibly discharge a firearm to tame an out of control bird or pigeon outbreak,

We take utmost care that this process is carried out with minimal disturbance to you and your neighbours, by timing it when the majority of the birds are within range.

Solar panel cleaning and proofing
Pest birds favour nesting under solar panels, but unfortunately leave a mess, damaging the expensive panels and underlying wiring systems, so that they work less effectively.

Our maintenance team can help you control this problem by first removing the birds, then thoroughly cleaning panels and surrounding area, and finally installing a stainless steel black UV-coated wire mesh over the panels to prevent the birds from nesting and roosting.

You can read more about this process here.

Cleaning up after a pest bird outbreak

Even when the birds are controlled, you still have to deal with the mess they have left. A property maintenance service is often the easiest way to get your building, equipment and surrounding areas cleaned up quickly and effectively.

Recommended bird cleanup services include:

Gutter and roof void cleaning
Birds will often leave a build-up of nesting debris and fouling in hard-to-access areas like roof voids and gutters. An experienced property maintenance service will remove their mess, and sterilise and clear stains using an environmentally friendly, bio-degradable disinfectant.

Pressure washing
A build-up of bird droppings and feathers is an unsightly distraction on the roof, sides of buildings, footpaths, pavements and driveways. If left for a long time, this can also lead to permanent damage to paint as well as rust and corrosion.

Bird control pressure washing services are designed for concrete and paved areas, loading docks and buildings, to refresh the look of your home or business facility.

The Allstate maintenance team specialises in clean-up after pest outbreaks.

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8371 1277

How Allstate can help with your bird problems

At Allstate, we have seen the stress and disruption caused by the noise, mess, and health and safety problems from a pest bird outbreak.

As Adelaide’s leading independent pest control company, our licensed, expert bird control technicians use a range of methods, and are well equipped to offer personalised solutions for pest bird issues in both homes and businesses.

Our experienced team members are always available for prompt advice and 24/7 service to all suburbs of Adelaide.

Our focus is to be safe and compassionate towards the birds, people and the environment. We offer a 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee, and affordable interest-free payment plans.

You don’t need to feel overwhelmed with a pest bird outbreak, or try to resolve it on your own – we are here to help.

Our bird control team is ready to help you now

or

8371 1277

Possum Removal in Adelaide: Possum Control and Removals

Possum Removal in Adelaide: Possum Control and Removals

by | Mar 5, 2021 | Blog, Possum

Possum Control in Adelaide | Possum Removals | Possums Adelaide

Do you have a furry housemate living rent-free in your roof? Chances are, it’s a cute and cuddly possum. However, they aren’t the best guests. They’re messy, noisy, and leave smelly waste lying around. Worse, they can cause considerable damage — chewing wires, scratching ceilings, and leaving urine stains and droppings behind. No wonder they’re considered a pest in many Adelaide homes, businesses and schools.

Don’t harbour them! If you suspect a possum issue, call Allstate Pest Control immediately. Using safe and humane methods, we’ll catch, remove, and deter possums from returning. Whether it’s a live possum or a dead possum removal, let’s restore your safe environment. Act today! 

Call Us Now

What questions will this article answer?

Our Process: How We Handle Possum Removal in Adelaide

Assess the Situation

Do you think you’ve got a possum problem? It all starts with your call. We’ll be there in your Adelaide property within a matter or hours – or minutes. Then we inspect your roof, garden, or wherever they’re hiding. Nocturnal creatures leave clues—scratches, nests, or even urine stains. We know the signs when we see them. 

We Bait & Trap the Possum

Our professional licensed possum catchers use humane live traps — safe for possums, safe for you. We know bait possums can’t resist. Setting the trap right is an art, and we’ve mastered it. Once set, we revisit the bait station within 3-5 days. Once the bait is taken, we replenish the bait to catch more if they are any left.

Relocate the Possum

By law, we can’t move them far for risks of endangering them. We relocate them just 50 metres from capture. But that’s enough to stop them from sneaking back to your property.

Complete the Job and Seal Entry 

We don’t stop at one visit. We come back to check the bait if there’s more. Once we’re sure there’s none left in your roof, basement, attic, or deck, we seal all entry points, and provide you with possum-proofing advice to prevent possums from invading in the future.

Speak to a technician today

or

8371 1277

Why Are Possums a Problem?

In developed, urban areas of Adelaide, shelter and protection from trees can be scarce, so possums tend to seek refuge in roof spaces instead. A common species to do so is the Common Brushtail Possum, which is active at night and feeds on eucalyptus leaves, fruit, vegetables, and even food from your kitchen pantry.

Possums are messy, hungry and noisy at night when you’re trying to sleep. Sometimes, they may even fight with your pets, especially cats. They can make it into your roof, squeezing through openings the size of a tennis ball. Once they have made it their home, they make a huge mess and cause a lot of damage – often chewing through insulation and electrical wiring, which leads to costly repairs and sometimes even fire or electric shock. They can transform a neat and organised space into unsanitary conditions filled with droppings and other messes.

They’re not just a problem for homes but also a health and reputation risk in food businesses, distribution facilities and schools.

It only takes one possum to cause a lot of trouble, so it’s important to manage them quickly. You may also find that other pests, such as rodents, are using the same entry point to access your roof, making it even more important to get on top of the problem early.

You Can’t Just Trap Or Cull A Possum – Here’s Why

According to the National Parks and Wildlife Act, possums are protected nocturnal animals in South Australia. Therefore, anyone who wants to trap and remove a possum must obtain a Permit from the Department for Environment and Heritage.

Once captured, possums must be released within 50 metres of where they were initially found. This prevents them from being released into the territory of another possum, which could fight and kill the newly released one.

Possum boxes, including nest boxes and control boxes, are effective methods for safely capturing and removing possums from properties. They are designed to trap possums while ensuring their safety.

The Allstate Pest Control team holds possum removal in Adelaide permits, so you won’t need to worry about getting one yourself. We humanely remove possums from your roof and then install protection to prevent them from returning.

Speak to us today for effective and safe solutions for possum control in Adelaide – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Speak to a technician today

or

8371 1277

Common Signs of Possum Infestation in Your Home

Since possums make their nests in your roof space, pay attention to activity that seems to be concentrated in the area above your ceiling. Possum infestation signs can include:

  • Noises in your roof: Hissing, screeching and coughing noises; lip-smacking sounds are also commonly used by elder possums to call out to mates and baby possums.
  • Movement: Due to their weight, movement sounds can be heard, such as heavy banging and loud thudding.
  • Urine: Possum urine is often a large puddle with a strong ammonia-like odour; look for dark brown stains on your floors or drywall. 
  • Droppings: Possum droppings are usually more than 15mm long, dark-coloured and cylindrical shaped.
  • Damages: Damages to home insulation, electric wiring, and scratches around entry points are signs. 
  • Missing food: As omnivores, possums eat anything. But they love pet food, especially cat food. They’ll also eat dog food. 
  • Rubbish bins: Possums love rummaging through trash, so take note if yours looks particularly chaotic.
  • House gutters: If your home has overhanging tree branches, check the condition of nearby gutters to see if they are damaged with scratches or gutter rash (mould); this is a strong sign that possums have made their way inside your home.
  • Dead possums: Professional services are crucial for dead possum removal due to the health risks associated with leaving carcasses on properties. Dead possum carcasses can attract other pests and spread diseases, making effective removal essential for property owners.
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Why Choose Allstate Pest Control for Possum Removal in Adelaide?

At Allstate, we understand how disruptive and stressful it can be to have a possum nesting in the roof. That’s why our expert possum control technicians are available 24/7 to provide a professional possum removal service, catch, remove and deter unwanted possums from your roof, saving you the time and energy of doing it yourself.

Our focus is on providing Adelaide homes, schools and businesses with long-term protection from possums, using up-to-date methods and a safe and compassionate approach.

We offer a 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee and affordable interest-free payment plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to manage possums in South Australia?

The easiest, most humane, and legally acceptable method is to call a licensed possum removal service. By law, possums must not be culled and should be relocated within 50 metres of where they’re found. 

How do you manage possums permanently?

We use possum-proofing techniques to stop possums from returning. After removing existing animals, our possum removal Adelaide experts seal entry points, trim overhanging branches, and advise you on how to secure food scraps and bins.

Can I remove a possum from my house?

No, you can’t. Possums are protected species in Adelaide. Removing them without proper expertise can harm them and land you in trouble. Plus, DIY methods can make the problem worse. It’s illegal to remove possums without a licence. The good thing is we’ve got one at Allstate Pest Control. Call our professional possum removal team today for a quick assessment and removal.

What’s the best professional possum removal service in Adelaide?

Allstate Pest Control offers the best possum removal service in Adelaide. Our pest control services include licensed possum baiting, available 24/7, and competitive pricing (from $77). We offer expert possum services that Adelaide residents trust, from catching to relocation.

How much does it cost to remove possums in Adelaide?

Starting from just $77, our licensed possum removal experts make possum removal affordable and hassle-free. Serving all suburbs in greater Adelaide, South Australia, our treatments are targeted where possums live, nest, and feed. Safe for your pets, kids, and the environment, we ensure a humane approach that works.

Don’t let possums cause considerable damage to your roof or garden. Book your professional possum removal service today by calling 8371 1277 or email us at mail@allstatepest.com.au for inquiries.

or

8371 1277

Your Guide to Rat and Mouse Control in Adelaide

Your Guide to Rat and Mouse Control in Adelaide

by | Feb 19, 2021 | Blog, Rats

YOUR GUIDE TO RAT AND MOUSE CONTROL IN ADELAIDE

 

Are you struggling with unwelcome guests in your home or business?

Between these pests’ mess, unhygienic nature and the damage they cause, rat and mouse control is troubling issue for many Adelaide home and business owners.

If you’re concerned you have a rodent outbreak or want to prevent one, it helps to know the basics about rats and mice and how you can stop them. In this guide we cover:

What questions will this article answer?

Why are rats and mice a problem?

Rats and mice cause significant damage Adelaide homes and businesses. Not only do they chew through walls, timber and electrical wiring, they carry harmful bacteria in both their droppings and coats, and contaminate food and stock.

Rodents may be small in size, but their path of destruction can compromise your health, cleanliness, safety and even ruin your good business reputation along the way.

Rats and mice are clever at adapting to living in a range of environments, and known for having two sharp front teeth in their upper and lower jaws. These teeth grow continuously, and their size is controlled by constant gnawing, chewing and eating. Though this is a matter of survival for them, it is unfortunately at the expense of our homes and livelihoods

To make matters worse, property damage caused by rats and mice is not covered by most insurance policies, as it is considered to be preventable. In other words, it is the home or business owner’s responsibility to keep these pesky rodents at bay.

Remember, acting fast is more likely to minimise the problem. This is where our rodent control team at Allstate Pest Control can help.

We are available 24/7 and follow a no-risk approach to ensure the wellbeing of our customers, employees and the environment. Ask us about our safe, effective and innovative solutions to control rodents.

Speak to one of our rodent control experts today

or

8371 1277

Where to find rats and mice

Rats and mice are generally more active at night when looking for food and water. They usually shelter and nest within homes, garages, sheds and gardens, particularly:

  • In holes underneath buildings
  • In the walls, ceiling or under the floor
  • Behind or inside boxes, equipment, machinery and tools
  • Behind or under cupboards and furniture
  • In piles of rubbish, paper, cloth
  • In vegetation or wood stacks
  • In animal enclosures such as chicken coops

Signs of a rodent infestation

To stop a small problem becoming a major drama, it’s important to act on the earliest indicators of rats or mice in your home or business. Keep your eyes, ears and even nose alert for the following signs:

Droppings
These are usually the first sign of a rodent issue and look like black grains of rice. Mouse droppings are much smaller, ranging from 3-5mm long, while rat droppings are shiny black and are 12 to 18mm in length.

Gnawed food or crumbs
Rats usually leave behind small pieces of food and crumbs, whereas mice tend to nibble and eat the outer part of the food.

Grease marks
Sometimes you may find greasy marks left by rodents’ fur rubbing against walls and skirting boards.

Burrows and tracks
You may also spot burrows, frequently used pathways or tracks through gardens, along fences and concrete slabs, and under buildings. Their tails can often leave swinging marks, which are most visible on dusty surfaces.

Gnaw marks to property
Rodents’ gnawing may cause chewing marks and holes in electrical cables and conduits, walls, timber, ducts and pipes. Damage to electrical cables is particularly dangerous as it may start a fire.

Scratching and running noises
Especially at night you may hear scratching, scampering and even squeaking coming from the walls, ceiling, or under the floor.

Musty odours
Rodents’ urine and droppings will often cause a sour, musty smell.

Seeing the pests themselves
Rats and mice are good at staying hidden, but you may sight them at night, especially running along walls and under furniture.

Excited behaviour from your pets
Your family dog or cat may smell the roednts and claw at particular areas where they are nesting.

Rat nests
Rat and mouse nests are often hidden, but usually look like a pile made from various scraps and materials, such as paper, cardboard, wood, straw or fabric.

How to stop rodents from getting in your house

Are you worried about a rodent infestation in your house? Rats and mice aren’t just unhygienic and unsavoury, but breed extremely quickly in the Adelaide climate. A larger infestation can cause significant damage to your home, and the mess, odour and potential food contamination all greatly compromise your health and comfort

3 ways rats and mice can damage your home:

Roof and wall damage
Rodents can chew through timber frames, pull apart and make nests in the insulation, and create entry points for other pests.

Floor and foundation damage
Rodents burrowing in the soil and within the foundations of the home can undermine structural support and damage underground pipes and cables.

Air ducts
Air ducts provide rats and mice with an efficient pathway to easily move around, which means their odours, debris and germs are circulated around your home, leaving you at risk to health problems.

Managing a rodent outbreak

If you are concerned that your home has a rodent outbreak, here are some tips to keep you safe while you work to control the situation:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before eating, drinking or smoking
  • Wear slippers or shoes around the house
  • Dispose of all the food and drink which you suspect has been contaminated
  • Regularly wipe down food preparation areas and always thoroughly wash or clean utensils and appliances before using them
  • Avoid areas where you suspect rodents are nesting if possible
  • Place all food in tightly sealed containers
  • If you are bitten by a rodent, consult your doctor immediately

How to prevent a rat or mouse infestation

The best way to stop a rodent infestation in Adelaide is to proactively block any entry points to your home and maintain good cleanliness and hygiene.

Here are several tips to prevent the chance of these pests invading your home:

Keep your backyard tidy
Remove any backyard clutter, keep food scraps in a sealed compost bin, and trim back excess foliage and vegetation.

Regularly check for entry points, then block or fill them
This can include installing mesh or screens over water tank openings, vents and chimneys; sealing holes, cracks around pipes and access points to kitchen cupboards; and fitting door seals at the bottom of each exterior door. Check out this guide to checking for and sealing up rodent entry points .

Carefully store and dispose of rubbish, waste and compost
Keep your home and yard clear of rubbish, ensure that it is placed in bins with tight fitting lids and dispose of it regularly. Avoid open compost heaps and using animal products in compost.

Keep up with garden and yard maintenance
Removing excess vegetation is important when limiting rodent access your home, especially if it is growing near a building or roof. This includes grass, shrubs, bushes, creepers and trees. Dispose of fallen fruit, pet waste and faeces, and remove piles of organic matter.

Practice good food handling and storage
Always wash or sanitise your hands. Keep food preparation areas and utensils clean and dispose of food scraps promptly. Store food in sealed, air tight containers, and do not leave out pet food.

Tidy up sheds, garages, attics and other storage areas
Rats and mice can easily find nesting or hiding spots in these less frequently used areas, so make sure you regularly clean and remove unwanted items to reduce clutter. Keep piles of materials such as wood or brick stacks at least 30cm above the ground.

Speak to one of our rodent prevention experts today

or

8371 1277

How to stop rats and mice from infesting your business

Rats or mice in your business can be extremely costly. Aside from the physical damage they do to premises and equipment, they can become an unsightly distraction at work, contaminate supplies and stock, cause illness in employees and customers, and ultimately tarnish the reputation of your business.

As they are highly adaptable creatures, rodents can infest and thrive in businesses in a wide range of industries.

Food, hospitality and catering businesses
Rats and mice in food preparation facilities can lead to heavy fines for failing to meet food regulation and safety standards, and are a strong deterrent to customers.

Read more about rodents in restaurants and food businesses

Aged care and hospitals
Rodent infestations are particularly problematic in nursing homes and medical centres, as they can further compromise the fragile health of residents or patients.

Read more about rodents in aged care

Warehouses and distribution facilities
Industrial businesses often contain many dark, hidden corners which are ideal nesting spots for rodents. Rats are able to find their way into your stock, as well as damaging expensive equipment and machinery.

Read more about rodents in warehouses

Tips to protect your business from rodents

Given the threat that rats and mice pose to businesses, it’s essential to take a prevention-first approach by upholding high hygiene and safety standards in the workplace. Some tips include:

  • Waste and refuse: disposal areas should always be secured, regularly emptied and located as far away from the main building as possible
  • Staff should be made aware about maintaining cleanliness and reporting sightings of rodents
  • Stock should be inspected for damage and rotated regularly

At Allstate Pest Control Adelaide, our technicians are happy to assist you with planning and implementing a rodent control strategy for your business – give us a call on 8371 8277, or click the orange chat button to find out more.

How to manage rats and mice

The two primary techniques to prevente rats and mice are chemical control and trapping.

Chemical control
This involves setting baits of anti-coagulant rodenticides to attract and poison rodents. These should be used with caution because of:

  • Offensive odours: these can be emitted from dead, decaying rodents in hard to reach areas
  • Pet and child safety: toxic chemical baits and poisoned rodents can both pose a risk
  • Sensitivities and allergic reactions: nearby chemical baits can potentially trigger sensitivities in people

Trapping
Rodents are lured and captured using multiple, correctly-sized traps. Larger sized traps are usually used for rats and the smaller ones for mice. It is crucial for you to check the traps daily, remove dead rodents, then spray the area with insecticide to remove fleas.

The Allstate rodent control method

The best way to manage rodents is with one of our expert rat and mouse control technicians. They will help you prevente them quickly and safely, and devise and implement a long-term rodent control program as required. We have all the equipment ready to go – you don’t need to source any chemicals or traps yourself.

We will first discuss your concerns, before performing a thorough inspection of your property to determine entry points, runways and nesting sites.

Our Adelaide technician will then station rodent control products in appropriate locations, assist with monitoring and replenishment, and if required remove dead rodents for you. It can take up to 2 weeks to begin seeing results.

Our integrated approach has a strong emphasis of safety – we are careful when applying treatments around your home or business, and book treatment at a time that will cause minimal disruption to your normal routine.

Don’t worry if you have children or pets, as the bait stations are encased in tamper proof, high-grade plastic that can only be accessed with a key.

For one-off treatments, we also aim to get to the root of the problem so that it doesn’t happen again. Our technicians will send you a report with feedback and recommendations on how to maintain a rodent-free home or business, that you can refer back to at anytime.

Why Choose Allstate?

At Allstate Pest Control Adelaide, our licensed, professional technicians understand how overwhelming and urgent a rodent outbreak can be. We also understand the importance of strong protection against rodents through our Routine Maintenance Programs for businesses.

As a family-owned South Australian company, we are available 24/7 to help homes and businesses seeking fast, professional advice and service.

Using industry-leading methods with a strong focus on safety for people, pets and the environment, it’s our mission to provide you with a stress-free, cost-effective way to protect you and your property from pests.

We offer a 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee, and affordable interest-free payment plans.

We are ready to take control of your rodent issues, save you time and energy, and give you peace of mind.

Call Allstate today 8371 1227.

Speak to a rodent expert today

or

8371 1277

Termite Control Adelaide: The Ultimate Guide

Termite Control Adelaide: The Ultimate Guide

by | Dec 9, 2020 | Blog, Termites

YOUR GUIDE TO TERMITE CONTROL ADELAIDE

 

If you’re a homeowner, you’ve probably thought about pest control. But have you thought about termite control?

For homeowners in Adelaide, termite control might be one of the most important decisions you make about your property.

Termites are a real concern for homeowners in South Australia because our state is home to a particularly sneaky type of termite, the subterranean termite.

These pests (also called “white ants”) create a colony underground, then build tunnels in a 100-metre radius of the colony to find food. Although all termites are almost impossible to spot, you’re unlikely to come across a subterranean termite colony at all.

That’s why it’s a good idea to keep your knowledge on termites, and how your own home may be uniquely affected, up to date.

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What you should know about termite control in Adelaide

Termites are attracted to all homes, no matter what age they are. So, whether your home is old or new, being knowledgeable about termites will help you make the best decisions for the safety of your family, and the future of your home – your largest asset.

Risks and risk factors

Although it’s essential to get a professional termite inspection annually (as recommended by the Australian Standards and CSIRO), it’s also important to keep an eye out for potential risk factors in and around your home.

Some of the risk factors to be aware of are:

  • Moist or rotting wood
    Subterranean termites are attracted to moisture, so you should routinely check your home and garden for any signs, including old fences, stacks of firewood, and leaking taps.
  • Timber garden mulch
    Mulch is a popular product for landscaping, but if timber mulch is kept too close to buildings, termites may start chewing on the timber inside the home as well. To reduce this risk, look at alternative types of mulch or move it a bit further away from your house.
  • Dense shrubbery
    Keeping foliage and shrubs near your home trimmed helps moist areas to dry faster.
  • Neighbours with risk factors
    Even if you maintain your property well, termites might still try to move onto your home if there are neighbouring properties with any of these issues.

Prevention vs Repair

Staying on top of these risk factors is great, but it’s not a replacement for professional prevention strategies. That’s why it’s essential to look into annual termite inspections for your home.

By getting a termite control expert to assess your home and help you implement preventions, you can save a lot of money. In 2012, a study by the AEPMA estimated that the cost of treatment and repairs from termite damage was $10,000 per house, and it’s not covered by insurance! With a timely termite inspection service, you keep your family safe from damaging pests.

Frequency of termite inspection

Although the Australian Standards and CSIRO recommend an annual termite inspection, every home is different, so some may need to be checked more frequently. For example, houses in areas surrounded by trees, particularly Eucalypts, may be at more risk and need more frequent inspections.

However, an annual inspection doesn’t just check for the presence of termites!

By having an annual inspection of your family home, your professional termite controller can also assess your property for potential risk factors and make sure that your prevention methods are still working as intended.

Allstate are highly experienced in termite inspections and will make sure that your property and garden are inspected from top to bottom. Use our instant chat to book a termite inspection now.

What if termites are found?

If your termite controller suggests a termite treatment, there are a range of options available for this pesky pest problem.

Termite treatment doesn’t have to be scary. At Allstate, we know that every situation is different. That’s why we’re committed to finding the best solution for you, and you can be sure that you’re getting the best result for you and your family home.

Allstate’s friendly pest controllers always use termite treatments with your safety in mind. Our Premise and Sentricon systems are the safest and most effective termite treatments around. And if you choose Allstate for your termite treatment, you will also receive our industry-leading pest free guarantee.

Sentricon uses no in-ground chemicals and is environmentally sensitive. Premise termite control has a minimal environmental impact and is safe for humans, pets, and wildlife. So with either of these options, you can be assured that your home’s safety won’t put others at risk. This is pest management at it’s best.

Termites in new homes in Adelaide

When buying or living in an older home, you may have thought about termites. But did you know that new homes are also susceptible to termite infestations?

Once termites start feeding inside newly constructed homes, they can cause serious damage within just three months. That’s why it’s important to keep your home protected with up-to-date technology like Kordon, a barrier installed around the house during construction.

For all your termite control needs in Adelaide, call Allstate now – 8371 1277.

Termite Inspections

You know you need an inspection to keep your home safe, but what can you expect from a termite inspection?

When hiring a professional termite control company like Allstate to inspect your Adelaide home, a highly-trained, knowledgeable expert will use a range of up-to-date tools and techniques to detect termites and their damage.

Some of the tools and techniques that Allstate inspectors use are:

  • Sounding tools to test wood integrity
  • Moisture reading tools to find any areas particularly attractive to termites
  • Movement detectors to locate termites moving behind walls and other areas
  • Borescopes to take photos of termites hiding in timber
  • Visual inspections for signs of ingress points and mud tubes

Termite Pest Control Adelaide

The Allstate team follows a detailed checklist for a thorough inspection, so you can be confident that any sign of termites will be uncovered.

During an inspection, we check:

  • Interiors – each room is checked from floor to ceiling including doorframes, skirting boards, and cupboards
  • Roof void – if the roof void can be accessed, they will check all timber with a sounding tool
  • Subfloor – in homes with a subfloor, this is where termites will usually begin their attack
  • Exterior – the full perimeter of the house
  • Outbuildings – interior and exterior of every outbuilding on your property
  • Grounds – entire grounds, particularly landscaping timbers, garden beds, trees, stumps, and fence line

Once your termite inspection is completed, we provide you with a detailed report of any findings.

The report includes:

  • Details of what was inspected
  • Notes of any areas that could not be inspected and why
  • Photos and explanations of findings
  • List of findings that increase risk (e.g. leaking taps)
  • Recommendations for a further invasive inspection or treatment if required
  • Recommendations for frequency of inspections

Termite Treatment

It can be tempting to DIY your termite control. But the risks of taking termite control into your own hands are huge. You might think your treatment is working, only to find out months later that they’ve still created a considerable amount of damage, like this Gold Coast homeowner who ended up with $25,000 in repairs.

To avoid this happening, you should contact a local, professional termite controller, like Adelaide’s Allstate Pest Control. They can then help you find the best termite treatment and prevention options for you after your termite inspection.

Because every situation is different, a personalised approach to termite protection and treatment is essential.

Allstate offers a range of termite prevention and treatment measures. The two main options are Sentricon AlwaysActive and Premise. But no matter which option you choose, Allstate termite control is always backed by a comprehensive re-treatment and/or timber replacement warranty.

We also believe that termite control should be accessible to all. That’s why Allstate provides interest-free payment plans to give everybody the opportunity for professional termite protection and treatment.

Sentricon Always Active

Sentricon AlwaysActive is an excellent option for termite control in Adelaide homes that is environmentally sensitive and secure from pets and children.

Sentricon AlwaysActive is highly effective and a long-term solution for termite control. This system preventes termites without using in-ground chemicals. It offers continuous protection by tapping into the natural behaviour and biology of termites to prevente termites before they’re discovered.

Your termite controller will place Sentricon stations strategically around your home. Termites feed on the Sentricon In-Ground Termiticide Roots, which contains a growth regulator that interrupts the termite moulting process. When the termites tunnel back to their colony, the worker termites will die. Eventually, the entire colony will be prevented, and any new termites will be prevented.

Premise

Premise is a non-repellent termiticide well-suited to construction methods and particular environmental conditions in South Australia.

When Premise is used for termite control, termites will pass through the Premise treated zone. They then stop feeding, become disorientated, cease grooming, and begin to neglect their environment. Once this happens, natural occurring fungi and microorganisms in the soil start to affect the termites, causing them fatal diseases and the colony’s eventual destruction.

Although Premise is lethal to termites, it’s safe to humans, pets, and other wildlife, making it an excellent environmentally-conscious option for termite control.

New home termite protection

At Allstate, we know that getting ahead of a termite problem by protecting your new home is a very smart idea. That’s why we have a dedicated pre-construction division.

As a South Australian business that’s been protecting homes since 1986, we have decades of experience in termite behaviour and control specific to Adelaide homes. Our pre-construction team, headed by Aaron Thompson (a licensed builder and professional pest controller), is always at the fore-front of termite control in construction.

When using Allstate for your new home protection, you can be protected with a range of premium products and application methods that are designed for the South Australian environment.

There are various ways our pre-construction team helps builders and homeowners protect new buildings, including Kordon Termite Barriers and other building services.

Kordon Termite Barrier

Kordon Termite Barrier is a repellent termite barrier made in Adelaide, making it the perfect solution for Adelaide construction methods and climate. This protection is backed by Bayer, one of the world’s largest environmental science companies, and is extensively tested by the CSIRO.

Kordon is a polyester webbing containing deltamethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid, which is laminated between two UV stable low-density polyethylene plastic sheets. This is then installed around the building in areas where termites are likely to find access.

The deltamethrin in Kordon is highly repellent to termites, it is perfect for residential, as well as commercial projects. White ants will avoid close contact with it and try and find food elsewhere. If the termites try to go around the Kordon, they will build mud tubes. These tubes are detectable by trained inspectors and can be quickly prevented following your annual inspection.

Building services

Alongside Kordon, Allstate recommends several building services to help ensure that your new home is safe from termites. These include:

  • Side slab moisture protection to prevent moisture build-up in side slabs and deter termite activity
  • Moisture barriers to prevent termites from becoming attracted to the property
  • Concrete curing to prevent cracks from forming and allowing termites to enter
  • Concrete repairs to remove any termite entry-points already there

Why Choose Allstate?

With so many options, termite protection and termite control can quickly become overwhelming.

If you aren’t sure where to start, contact an Adelaide termite control company to discuss the best options for you, and set up an inspection for your home. If you think you might have termites, contact us using our website for 24/7 fast response and professional advice.

As a South Australian family-owned and operated business, Allstate care about the safety of people, homes and businesses across greater Adelaide. Our main aim is to protect homes and families through up-to-date pest control options, including termite control that’s safe for people, pets, and wildlife.

We know how important keeping a termite-free home is, so we are proud to offer 24/7 fast and friendly response via our website, a 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee, and affordable interest-free payment plans.

By using Allstate for your termite control needs, you can ensure you and your family will be able to enjoy your home for years to come.

Call Allstate today 8371 1227.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

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8371 1277

The Ultimate Guide to Pest Control in Adelaide

The Ultimate Guide to Pest Control in Adelaide

by | Dec 1, 2020 | Blog, Pests

YOUR GUIDE TO PEST CONTROL IN ADELAIDE

 

Welcome to the ultimate pest control guide from Allstate Pest Control, Adelaide’s leading family-owned pest control company.

Why is pest control in Adelaide so important? Between chilly winters, rainy springs and scorching summers, there is a different element for every Adelaide season, and unfortunately each one brings with it a different set of pests.

Whether it’s summer ants and flies or rodents seeking warmth in the winter, unwanted guests are a fact of life in South Australia – but fortunately there are people like us to evict them from your home or business, and prevent them from coming back.

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The hidden risks of ignoring pest control in Adelaide

We’ve all dealt with the odd ant trail, stray roach or maybe even rats in the roof. But when it comes to pests and controlling them, there is often more than meets the eye.

While they might be unpleasant to look at, pests can also spread disease, cause illness, damage homes and buildings, and sometimes even cause businesses to shut up shop. That’s why keeping them under control is essential for the health and safety of you and your loved ones, or the longevity of your business.

Pest-related health issues

As Adelaide pest controllers we see ourselves as guardians of your health. Common household pests like fleas, cockroaches, and mosquitoes can spread malaria, plague, and dengue. The common household cockroach can lead to breathing difficulties like asthma. For people with allergies, these small bugs can even prove deadly.

Building damage

Termites or white ants are wood eating insects that silently feed inside the walls of your home, and can cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage before they are discovered. Rats, mice and possums also gnaw on walls, furniture and even through wiring – risking beginning an electrical fire.

Hidden infestations

Most home or business owners have spotted one or two pests before and probably thought nothing of it. But seeing just a couple of these creatures can mean that there are a lot more hiding away in the cracks and crevices of your building.

Reputation damage

While pests endanger the safety of you and your family in the home, they are even more of a problem in the workplace. Pests don’t only risk staff and customer health – you are also likely to damage your reputation if a customer encounters any creepy crawlies that shouldn’t be there.

While pests can cause a lot more trouble than you would think, we’re not just here to bring you doom and gloom. Fortunately the right professional pest control will not only remove existing infestations, but can prevent many pests from cropping up in the first place.

The Allstate team are pest control gurus with a targeted approach that hits pests where they live and breed to ensure the treatment works. Combined with fast-acting treatments and a money-back guarantee, we’re proudly Adelaide’s leading independent pest control company.

Call Allstate for family and pet safe pest control today.

For more information on identifying pests and how to prevent them, keep reading.

Pest control for the home

With so much of our lives spent at home, it’s essential to keep your house and garden safe from pests. Different kinds of pests prefer different areas of the home and garden, so there’s a chance you’ll be dealing with at least one unwanted guest.
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Termites

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Ants

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Cockroaches

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Spiders

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Birds

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Bed Bugs

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Bees & Wasps

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Rats & Mice

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Possums

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Biting Insects

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Disinfection Services

Pest control for business

Whether you’re running a small business or managing a large facility, businesses can be hugely impacted by the presence of pests. While food-based businesses are at higher risk, any business from office spaces to medical centres needs to carefully manage their pest control.

If a pest problem is ignored, it can quickly get out of hand, leading to illness among staff and customers, damage to property, damage to business reputation, and in some cases total business closure. Once pest infestation takes hold, it’s difficult and costly to rectify, which is why routine pest control programs are essential to mitigating your risk.

At Allstate we service our commercial clients with a Routine Pest Management Program, which focuses on prevention instead of reactive service. This not only reduces the headache of an infestation, but uses far less pesticides than if we had to manage pests already there.

We also offer the Allstate Online portal, to give businesses a 24-hour, multi-site overview of their pest service. This also provides you with direct communication to your pest technician, who can work around your business’s opening hours to ensure your business keeps running smoothly.

Pest control technician inspecting bar equipment with flashlight.

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Types of pests

Termites

Did you know that Adelaide has some of the most destructive termites in the world? These aren’t a pest that you can ignore. With one in five homes being attacked by termites, it’s essential you get an annual termite inspection to find any signs of an infestation before they do too much damage.

These pests are attracted by moisture, so make sure you regularly check your home for any water damage and fix leaking taps, showerheads, and air conditioners as soon as the leaks occur.

Unfortunately, termites can be almost impossible to notice until the damage is done. That’s why you should always get your home or business inspected professionally in order to protect your property.

Ants

Common ants may not seem worrying, but a colony of them can cause you some trouble. Ants are particularly fond of the Adelaide climate and will make nests in garden beds, lawns, under pavers, and even in cavity walls or roof spaces.

Once they find a way in, ants tend to contaminate food. A bad infestation can even damage electrical wiring and pose health risks, which is why it’s vital to prevent ants from entering your home.

Ants are attracted by food, so you can prevent them by cleaning up any spilt food or drinks immediately, rinsing out bottles and cans before recycling, and not leaving pet food out. If you notice ant trails in your home, follow the trail to find their entry point and seal it. If the problem persists, consider professional pest control.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are one of the most prolific household pests. In Adelaide, they are active year-round but are particularly bad in the colder season as they are attracted to the warmth and food found in buildings. Once inside your property, cockroaches multiply rapidly, and it’s very easy for a small cockroach problem to get out of hand quickly.

Like ants, these pests are attracted by food, so the best way to prevent cockroaches is to keep your home clean, store food in airtight containers, and empty garbage bins regularly. Another way to prevent them is a with a 6-monthly pest spray, which will kill and deter them.

A cockroach infestation can lead to serious health implications. These pests can spread diseases like salmonella, dysentery, typhoid, hepatitis, and tuberculosis, which is why if you think you have a cockroach problem you should get professional pest control treatment.

Spiders

While most spiders don’t pose a threat, where there are small children and pets around, the more venemous species can be deadly. Spiders can also be a nuisance around the home and garden with their messy, sticky webs, and the dead insects they leave behind.

The best way to prevent spiders is by dusting and vacuuming regularly, removing visible cobwebs or egg sacs, and keeping your backyard tidy. For professional prevention, there are treatments that are safe for people and pets.

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Birds

Although it is nice to see birds drinking and feeding in your garden, they aren’t an animal you want nesting in your home. Even in cases where birds don’t make it beneath your roof, they can still cause problems; as more Adelaide homeowners install solar panels, there have been increased reports of damage from pigeons nesting beneath them.

These feathered creatures don’t usually come to your home alone. Like many other pests, they carry disease-causing bacteria that can lead to salmonella, ornithosis (which causes flu-like to pneumonia-type symptoms), bird fanciers’ lung (an allergic condition), cryptococcus (which leads to meningitis) and e-coli.

For pest birds, there are several removal, prevention, and cleaning options, for any situation.

Bed Bugs

With the possible exception of termites, bed bugs can be one of the scariest pests to infest a property. They are a nuisance in the home and can be a massive problem in hotels, motels, and other accommodation, causing a substantial financial impact.

These bugs are tough to see, and you won’t know that they’ve taken up residence in your bedroom until you wake with itchy, red bites that may turn into larger itchy welts. Once you know they’re there, they can also be challenging to remove, as female bed bugs will lay up to 3500 eggs in their lifetime.

Bed bugs can be transported into your home in second-hand furniture, including bed bases, mattresses, couches, dressers, wardrobes, and even picture frames. They will then be attracted to the nooks and crannies in mattresses, box springs, and curtains. To prevent a bed bug problem overtaking your home, you should inspect mattress seams and bedding, and vacuum your carpets frequently.

Without professional treatment you may believe that you have managed the bugs, but their tiny eggs can lay dormant for long periods, only to hatch when the weather warmsup and creates a new infestation. These resurgences of bed bugs are why it is essential to rid your home of bed bugs correctly.

Bees & Wasps

Bees are essential to our environment, but there are times when both bees and wasps can pose a danger. While they are generally peaceful, they will sting when they feel threatened. The sting of a bee or wasp can range from benign but painful to a life-threatening allergic reaction.

Bees and wasps don’t just create homes in the garden. Some of these pests even build their hives and nests inside wall cavities! These can house hundreds of insects that, if threatened, may swarm and sting all at once.

Even for those without an allergy, being stung by a swarm is dangerous. If someone (particularly a child) has not been stung before, an allergy may not be known and could result in devastating consequences.

Although some beehives and wasp nests may seem easy to remove, attempting to remove one is very dangerous. We encourage anyone with a wasp or bee problem to contact a licensed pest control service.

Rats & Mice

Rats and mice are one of the most despised pests in Adelaide homes and businesses. These rodents cause a lot of problems, from health issues to structural damage, and even fires.

There is a misconception that a rodent problem means your home is dirty. Often, rats and mice enter homes due to environmental conditions outside of your control, like nearby dense foliage, fruit trees, or neighbouring properties housing chickens.

Once rats and mice have made your house their home, they breed very quickly, and what seemed like a small rodent problem can turn into a major infestation. They are highly destructive pests and will gnaw on walls, furniture, insulation, leave droppings, and destroy electrical cabling.

Like most pests, prevention is better than extermination. Rats and mice enter homes through small holes in the perimeter of buildings, so make sure you seal up any holes inside and outside your property to prevent their entry. Rodents are also attracted by food and water, so don’t leave any pet food outside.If you do have a rodent problem, there are effective removal methods available.

Possums

Possums are becoming more common in the suburbs as urban development depletes their natural environment. They enter rooves through gaps in roofing and tiles, often after stormy weather dislodges them. The best way to prevent them is to make sure any access points are closed up.

It’s hard to mistake a possum in your roof. Unlike smaller rodents who scratch and scurry in ceilings and wall cavities, possums make loud thumping noises, usually during the night. So if you’re not getting a good night’s sleep, a possum may be to blame.

These pests are incredibly territorial and can become aggressive when defending themselves or being removed. There are also strict laws regarding the removal of possums, so it is essential to hire a trained and licensed service to remove them for you.

Biting Insects

Sometimes you might know you have a pest because of mysterious, itchy bug bites on your skin. There is a broad range of these biting insects entering Adelaide homes, and along with being irritating they can spread diseases and risk your health.

Fleas are one of the easiest pests to identify, particularly if you have pets in your home. Fleas often come into your home on the coat of your dog or cat, then may begin to bite you too. They can be identified by their bites: small, dark spots surrounded by red, which are usually on your feet and lower legs.

Bed bugs are another pest that you may not see but can infest your home. The tell-tale sign of a bed bug is their bite, which is small, flat, or raised, red, and positioned in a straight line. These bites usually appear in the morning, and often around your neck and arms.

Bird lice and mites are another not-so-tiny problem pest caused by birds nesting in your roof. Once the nesting birds leave and the lice or mites have no food source, they will search for a new host, and it might be you. Bird mite bites are often mistaken for the bites of other insects, or even scabies, as they look like small reddish spots that become itchy and swell.

When the cause of a pest bite is unknown, the best course of action is to speak to a pest control professional, who can conduct an inspection of your property and uncover and treat the cause.

Can someone prevent all these pests?

Although many common pests in Adelaide can be prevented, many of the methods are time-consuming, and it’s easy to miss small cracks, gaps, and other problems in your property. If you’re ever in doubt and want to make sure you are protected, get an Adelaide pest control company to inspect your property and help you with the right prevention and treatment.

As a South Australian family-owned and operated business, we care about more than exterminating pests. Our main aim is to protect homes and businesses across greater Adelaide, ensuring that your property, family, or customers and staff are safe.

 

That’s why Allstate stays up to date on new pest control technology, ensuring that we use the most effective, fast-acting, and non-toxic treatments for every job.

We understand that not every person can afford the more extensive pest control treatments, so we offer affordable interest-free payments. We are also so sure that you will be satisfied with our service that we offer a money-back guarantee.

Our technicians are fully insured and highly experienced in controlling all pests in all types of home and commercial settings. With 24/7 emergency service, you can be assured that Allstate will be ready to help you when you need it.

Call Allstate today on 8371 1227.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

or
8371 1277