How does an exterminator work during a pandemic?

Exterminators are an essential service and the pandemic has not stopped us from being able to do our jobs. In fact, we’re one of the few industries that operate almost normally during these times. Afterall, we’ve been taking extra precautions all along, such as wearing protective masks, providing contactless, online quotes, and ensuring homeowners are at a safe distance. 

So, if critters and insects thought they’d have a free pass into your home this season, they’ve got another thing coming: us!

Common concerns during the pandemic

It is normal for homeowners to have questions about safety and security when inviting a service team into their home. And it’s natural to have concerns that the service might not be as thorough or as effective due to pandemic precautions. The extermination experts at Extermination Leblanc in Granby, Quebec answer your questions about exactly how an exterminator works during a pandemic.

Are exterminators an essential service during the pandemic?

Yes. Residential, commercial and industrial extermination services are essential and permitted to remain operational during the pandemic as per the Government of Quebec’s list of economic sectors permitted to remain open. Exterminators protect public health, food and goods by preventing and eliminating pests.

Is it safe to have an exterminator in my home?

Yes. At Extermination Leblanc, we hold our teams to the highest standards to keep you and your family safe during and after our visit. Here are some of the safety measures in place to address health and safety concerns during the pandemic:

  • All of our exterminators wear PPE masks before, during and after the treatment
  • Our teams wear gloves when in and around your home
  • We replace our shoe covers when entering each home
  • We wipe down all surfaces we have come in contact with
  • Only one technician will enter your home. In special situations where more than 1 exterminator is required for the treatment, homeowners will be advised about the processes involved.
  • All of our equipment is thoroughly cleaned between visits

Can I stay at home when the exterminator is doing the treatment?

Depending on the type of pests and the chemicals and procedures used in the extermination process, you may or may not be able to remain indoors during the extermination visit. Our team will give you clear instructions which are specific to your situation. For example, we will communicate about:

  • What to do before the extermination such as covering furniture, protecting food, etc.
  • When it is safe to enter your home after the treatment, if you had to leave at all.
  • How long to wait before cleaning your home after the extermination treatment.
  • Special instructions for the safety of pets and children, if applicable.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, our teams are taking all precautions to stay at a minimum 2m distance for any in-person dealings during on-site visits. We appreciate the extra efforts that our clients are taking to help keep our employees safe, too. Thank you!

Should I wait until the pandemic is over to call an exterminator?

Very few pest and critter infestations will clear up and go away on their own. If you have unwanted guests during the pandemic, don’t wait! Calling an exterminator now or after the pandemic will make no difference in terms of your safety – we’re working as hard as ever to keep you and your family safe before, during and after our visit.

Waiting to call an exterminator until after the public health restrictions have been lifted will make a huge difference, for the worse, if the infestation grows out of control. Putting off extermination treatment can result in the need for more invasive and expensive operations.

If you have problems with any of these insects, pests, critters or animals, call Extermination Leblanc for help:

  • Ants
  • Beatles
  • Bed bugs
  • Butterflies/Moths
  • Cockroaches
  • Flies
  • Ladybugs
  • Spiders
  • Wasps
  • Rats
  • Skunks
  • Mice
  • Racoons

Extermination Leblanc offers pest management services in Montreal, Granby, Estrie and Monteregie. Give us a call or reach out for a free online quote. We’re here to help, even during a pandemic!