How can you prepare for a pest inspection?

• <div><p>Make it easier for your inspector to do a thorough assessment by preparing your home ahead of time. That includes:</p><ul><li><p>Noting any signs of pests around the home</p></li><li><p>Removing obstacles in the way of the attic, basement, plumbing, garbage, and other key areas that inspectors will need to access</p></li><li><p>Keeping children and pets away from inspection areas</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top in Oakes, ND

Q: What are the first signs of bed bugs?

• <div><p>The first signs of bed bites are itchy bites, rust-colored spots on bedding, and tiny dark fecal droppings. You might also find bed bug eggs, casings from nymphs shedding, or bed bugs themselves. Some infestations can also cause a musty odor near the bedding. Calling in a professional exterminator as soon as you notice these signs gives you the best chance of total eradication.</p></div>

Q: What smells keep coyotes away?

• <div><p>Scent deterrents like ammonia, vinegar, mothballs, and pepper can help keep coyotes away, but these are best used in tandem with other preventative measures. Remember that ammonia and vinegar can kill your plants and/or grass, so it&rsquo;s best to soak rags in these substances or spray them on hardscaped areas to avoid damaging your landscape.</p></div>

Q: What scent keeps roaches away?

• <div><p>Fortunately, many strong natural scents can help deter roaches, thanks to their keen sense of smell. Roaches tend to avoid potent aromas, such as crushed bay leaves, citrus peels, eucalyptus, and peppermint, as they associate these smells with danger. Sprinkling garlic powder, placing mint or lavender plants, or using essential oils like citronella, clove, or tea tree can create an unwelcoming environment for them. These scents don't kill roaches, but they can help keep them from settling in your home when used consistently in high-risk areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or entry points. </p></div>

Q: Is there anything you can spray to keep birds away?

• <div><p>You can find a variety of humane bird repellent sprays online and at home improvement stores. However, if you want to try a DIY method that will keep birds away without harming them, mix some water, dish soap, and a few drops of peppermint oil and spray the area you want bird-free. Peppermint oil is a notoriously lovely smell for humans, but birds tend to avoid it.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for pros in Oakes, ND

*The Angi rating for companies in Oakes, ND is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for companies in Oakes, ND is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their needs.

Last update on December 15, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Kris did a great job, he was very efficient and got the work done in a timely matter. He answered all my questions and concerns. Kris is a very pleasant young man. I'd recomend him to any one.
Your Home Improvement Company, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2025
I have used them for multiple jobs on multiple locations, they are amazing. They show up on time they get things right and I don’t have to call them back. I’ve had experience with other plumbers that I have to call back and they don’t respond. This one does it right the first time
DRAIN WIZARDS LLC
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Reviewed in December 2024
We recommend highly! Clear understanding of options, our final choices, and our place in their schedule of jobs. Wonderful crew was able to remove and replace shingles in one day. Our other job included replacing 4 windows and 2 glass patio doors. The 2-man team of Will and Mitch was...
Western Products
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Reviewed in March 2024
Mark is very professional, detail-oriented, and reliable. We live in a 100+ year old home and Mark was able to restore and update everything to perfection. He worked together with us on planning and gave us several options and thoughtful suggestions on each project. Restoring an old home comes...
MWR Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2023
Very personable and congenial. Does good work at a fair price.
Ace Plumbing
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Reviewed in July 2023
He did a very cheap price and did it very well. The
Vu Nguyen's Landscaping
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Reviewed in July 2022
Bath Planet and Your Home Improvement Co. came out to do our tub to shower conversions. The workmanship, install, and value over all was great! Our installer was excellent and very clean. Thank you Brady for coming out to remind us of our warranty and checking out our kitchen.
Your Home Improvement Company
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Reviewed in June 2022
Ramon, Johnny and Tyrus did a very good job installing drain tile and sump pump in our basement. They were very friendly and communicated very well throughout the project. They left the worksite very clean when they left. Would not hesitate to use them again.
Groundworks
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Reviewed in January 2022
Daryl, Johnny and the rest of the crew were great. Arrived on time every morning and when they finished for the day the work site was cleaned. They even skimmed to pool to make sure there was no debris . The project took 3 1/2 days and we couldn't be happier.
In Ex Designs, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2021
Efficient and cleanly. Good communication and friendly!
American Waterworks
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Find in Oakes

Plunkett's Pest Control

4.70(

251

)

Plunkett's Pest Control

4.70(

251

)

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 92% of Angi customers

With over 100 years in business, we are earning your trust. Founded in 1915, Plunkett’s Pest Control is a family-owned & operated company with third-generation ownership. Plunkett’s delivers professional pest control services to residential and commercial clients in 20 states and growing. Our entire staff is knowledgeable, trustworthy, resourceful, and passionate about preventing & solving pest concerns for our clients and safeguarding the communities we call home.

"I think these folks know what they are doing, but communication and follow up is poor. I will try another company as I search for expertise and professional communication."

CYNTHIA H on November 2021

"I think these folks know what they are doing, but communication and follow up is poor. I will try another company as I search for expertise and professional communication."

CYNTHIA H on November 2021

Dakota Pest Control

5.00(

)

Dakota Pest Control

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

At Dakota Pest Control, If you're issues with pests Dakota Pest Control is solution to your problems. We offer the highest quality residential and commercial pest control services for insects and rodents. Our surprisingly reasonable rates help make getting professional pest control one of the most sensible maintenance services you can start for your home. For over 33 years, our family owned and operated business has offered effective termite and pest control services to residential and commercial customers throughout Bismarck/ Mandan area. In addition to termites, we also specialize in managing many other indoor and outdoor pests including: • Ants and Spiders • Roaches (all types) • Fleas and Ticks • Wasps & Hornets • Beetles and Crickets • Mice and Rats We provide consistency in our service. We're constantly searching for ways to prove our superiority to our clients. We treat our customers with the quality and courtesy they deserve. Give us a call today for more information or to schedule a free estimate!

"In 2017 we had an infestation of black ants so we contacted Dakota Pest Control. They were prompt, thorough, informative, and offered to come out for another treatment if needed at no additional cost. Fortunately, one treatment was all we needed. Since it was so nice to not have to deal with spiders, ants, and other pesky insects last year we decided it was worth it to have a general treatment done this year and will probably continue on an annual basis. Cost was very reasonable for the services provided."

Donna H on May 2018

"In 2017 we had an infestation of black ants so we contacted Dakota Pest Control. They were prompt, thorough, informative, and offered to come out for another treatment if needed at no additional cost. Fortunately, one treatment was all we needed. Since it was so nice to not have to deal with spiders, ants, and other pesky insects last year we decided it was worth it to have a general treatment done this year and will probably continue on an annual basis. Cost was very reasonable for the services provided."

Donna H on May 2018

Environmental Air Solutions, Inc.

4.00(

)

Environmental Air Solutions, Inc.

4.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

17 years of experience

We offer a wide range of dependable services, such as air testing and mold control. With experienced and professional air quality consultants, you can count on us to make the air you breathe healthier and safer.

Bohlman Pest Control BPC LLC

5.00(

)

Bohlman Pest Control BPC LLC

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Privately owned by Brian and Teresa Bohlman, Bohlman Pest Control has been proudly serving the Grand Forks region for 27 years. Count on Bohlman Pest Control's professionalism and reliability to rid your farm, residence, lake home or business of unwanted pests, rodents, and insects. For fast, friendly, professional know-how, please call now and leave your problem to us!

Pest Control questions, answered by experts

The first signs of bed bites are itchy bites, rust-colored spots on bedding, and tiny dark fecal droppings. You might also find bed bug eggs, casings from nymphs shedding, or bed bugs themselves. Some infestations can also cause a musty odor near the bedding. Calling in a professional exterminator as soon as you notice these signs gives you the best chance of total eradication.

Scent deterrents like ammonia, vinegar, mothballs, and pepper can help keep coyotes away, but these are best used in tandem with other preventative measures. Remember that ammonia and vinegar can kill your plants and/or grass, so it’s best to soak rags in these substances or spray them on hardscaped areas to avoid damaging your landscape.

Fortunately, many strong natural scents can help deter roaches, thanks to their keen sense of smell. Roaches tend to avoid potent aromas, such as crushed bay leaves, citrus peels, eucalyptus, and peppermint, as they associate these smells with danger. Sprinkling garlic powder, placing mint or lavender plants, or using essential oils like citronella, clove, or tea tree can create an unwelcoming environment for them. These scents don't kill roaches, but they can help keep them from settling in your home when used consistently in high-risk areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or entry points.

Make it easier for your inspector to do a thorough assessment by preparing your home ahead of time. That includes:

Noting any signs of pests around the home
Removing obstacles in the way of the attic, basement, plumbing, garbage, and other key areas that inspectors will need to access
Keeping children and pets away from inspection areas

You can find a variety of humane bird repellent sprays online and at home improvement stores. However, if you want to try a DIY method that will keep birds away without harming them, mix some water, dish soap, and a few drops of peppermint oil and spray the area you want bird-free. Peppermint oil is a notoriously lovely smell for humans, but birds tend to avoid it.

The Oakes, ND homeowners’ guide to

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Alison Kasch
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Nov 25, 2025Nov 25, 2025
How Much Does Wasp Nest Removal Cost? [2025 Data]
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How Much Does Bee Removal Cost? [2026 Data]
How much does bee removal cost? Learn what you’ll pay based on factors like hive location, size of the infestation, extermination or removal, and more.
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If you need to get rid of bugs and pests making your home unsafe, it's time to decide if fumigation is necessary. Learn more about average fumigation costs.
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What Temperature Kills Bed Bugs Instantly?
Bed bugs are temperamental when it comes to temperature. Find out what temperature kills bed bugs for future reference.
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Oct 23, 2025Oct 23, 2025
How Often You Should Get a Termite Inspection
Termites may be small in size, but they can cause giant-sized problems to your home if left untreated. Regular inspections can protect you from costly damage and major headaches. But how often should you actually get your home checked for termites?
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•
Oct 20, 2025Oct 20, 2025
6 Types of Grass Bugs That Bite and How to Identify Them
Your backyard should be a haven, but bugs can quickly ruin a peaceful afternoon with bites and stings. Read on to help figure out which insects are biting you in your yard and how to prevent bug bites while still enjoying time outside.