How to Prepare for a Termite Fumigation

Place items that may be eaten or swallowed in the Nylofume bags provided by your fumigator, unless they are unopened in the manufacturer’s original airtight seal.

• Use two Nylofume bags for each group of items and seal each bag exactly as instructed.
• Include opened food, refrigerated and frozen food, pantry goods, medicine, vitamins, pet food, tobacco, and anything intended for consumption.
• Remove or bag ice and water in automatic ice makers, filters, or open containers.
• Do not substitute household trash bags or storage bags for Nylofume bags.

The property must be vacant throughout treatment and until the licensed operator clears it for re-entry.

• Remove every person and pet, including fish, reptiles, birds, and animals in garages or enclosures.
• Remove indoor plants and any plants attached to or growing inside the structure.
• Take pet food, medication, and animal supplies that fall under the bagging rules.
• Arrange lodging and bring essentials for the full vacancy window your coordinator provides.

The fumigation team needs access to every structure and enclosed area included in the treatment.

• Provide working keys for exterior doors, gates, garages, storage rooms, and detached areas being treated.
• Disarm alarms and provide any gate, lock-box, or access instructions.
• Remove or unlock interior padlocks, safes, cabinets, and rooms that the crew must inspect or prepare.
• Keep vehicles out of attached garages and move them clear of the work area unless told otherwise.

Crews need a clear path around the building so the fumigation covering can reach the soil line safely.

• Trim or tie back shrubs, vines, and branches touching the structure or blocking the perimeter.
• Move patio furniture, toys, planters, grills, and loose items away from exterior walls.
• Water the soil and landscaping around the foundation as directed by your fumigation coordinator.
• Retract awnings and open or remove exterior obstructions identified during the preparation walk-through.

Air circulation through the structure helps the fumigant reach enclosed spaces and later aerate from them.

• Open all interior doors, closets, cabinets, drawers, desks, and appliances as instructed.
• Raise blinds and open drapes so windows remain accessible to the crew.
• Open waterproof covers or storage containers that could trap air, as directed.
• Leave attic, crawlspace, garage, and utility access points unobstructed.

Gas service is normally shut off for fumigation and restored only after the structure has been cleared.

• Confirm who will arrange the gas shut-off and what time access is required.
• Do not turn the gas back on yourself unless your utility and fumigation team specifically authorize it.
• Schedule utility restoration for after clearance and plan for appliance relighting requirements.
• Keep your phone available in case the crew or utility provider needs access clarification.