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The number of treatments required to eliminate bed bugs varies depending on the severity of the infestation. Most cases require two to four treatments within a three- to six-week span. However, a small infestation might only need one inspection and one treatment visit. In contrast, severe cases or large homes may require an ongoing plan with quarterly, monthly, or semi-monthly visits from an exterminator for up to a year. To get rid of bed bugs as quickly as possible, it's best to investigate and treat them at the first sign of an issue.

To determine if you have a rat or mouse infestation, look for several key differences. The most obvious is the size of the rodent: rats are significantly larger with thicker bodies, while mice are much smaller and more slender. You can also identify them by their droppings; rat droppings are larger and rounder, about the size of a raisin, while mouse droppings are smaller, like a grain of rice, and often have pointed ends. Other signs include the sounds they make, as rats produce louder scratching and gnawing noises due to their size. Behaviorally, rats tend to be more cautious, whereas mice are more curious and might be seen more often. Additionally, rat nests are typically larger than those of mice. If you are unable to see the pest or find clear evidence, a professional inspection can provide a definitive identification.

It’s possible that skunks will leave on their own. Skunks may appear briefly on your property and move on if they cannot find food. However, waiting them out is not a foolproof solution. If the skunk finds a food source on or near your property and builds a nest, the animal will almost certainly not choose to move. If you can eliminate food sources, you’ll have a better chance of seeing the skunk leave on its own.

The type and amount of damage pests can cause to your home depends on the type of pest. Some pests, like rodents, often chew through wiring and can cause extensive damage to electrical systems, HVAC systems, walls, and insulation. Additionally, the pest’s waste presents a potential health hazard if it contaminates food or water. Other pests, such as termites, chew through floors, walls, and furniture, causing thousands of dollars in damage and making for costly repairs.