Pest Control SOPs – Residential General Treatment
Purpose
Standardise residential treatments for quality, safety, and efficiency. Typical scope: inside & outside for common pests (ants, cockroaches, spiders), plus a free rodent upgrade (cardboard bait station in roof void) where appropriate and authorised. Always follow the product label and SDS.
Durations by House Size
| Dwelling | Time Allowance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lowset – 3 bed | 45 min | Standard interior + exterior perimeter |
| Lowset – 4 bed | 60 min | Allow extra for outdoor living areas |
| Lowset – 5 bed | 75 min | Larger footprint; adjust for complexity |
Pre-Start Checks & PPE
- Confirm scope with client; identify pets/children, aquariums, food prep areas.
- PPE: gloves, eye protection; respirator where label requires; long sleeves/pants, enclosed shoes.
- Check products/equipment; mix and apply strictly per label & SDS.
- Place signage/barriers where required by label or site risks.
Equipment & Products
| Category | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General sprays | Residuals per label for ants/cockroaches/spiders | Target cracks/crevices, skirtings; avoid food surfaces |
| Gels/Baits | Cockroach/ant gels, ant granules | Place in hidden areas; don’t contaminate with sprays |
| Dusts | Roof void, wall voids (label-permitted) | Control drift; avoid living areas and open cavities |
| Rodenticide | Block/bait (label-approved) | Used in roof void monitor; secure and record |
| Tools | Hand sprayer, puffer, ladder, torch, cloths | Carry spill kit; wipe any residue immediately |
Inside Treatment Process
- Kitchen: Gels in hinges, corners, under/behind appliances; never on benches/food surfaces. Light residual along kickboards/skirting where permitted.
- Wet areas: Bathrooms, laundry: pipes, traps, cupboards. Address silverfish zones (linen) if within scope.
- Living/Bedrooms: Skirtings, door thresholds, entry points; avoid bedding, toys, and electronics.
- Storage/Robes: Treat skirtings lightly; avoid clothing; ask client to open doors.
- Roof void (if safe access): Apply dust/baits per label; note locations in job card.
- Final check: Remove webs (where practical), wipe overspray, ensure no slip hazards.
Outside Treatment Process
- Perimeter: External skirtings, expansion joints, entry points, around doors/windows.
- Eaves/Fascia: Spider treatment where allowed; avoid drift to neighbours/waterways; check wind.
- Ancillaries: Bins, sheds, pergolas, outdoor kitchens; caution near edible gardens.
- Weep holes: Do not apply directly unless permitted by label; treat adjacent areas per guidance.
Free Rodent Upgrade (Roof Void)
With client approval, place a cardboard bait station (or cardboard box) in roof void as a monitor/upgrade. Use label-approved rodenticide and secure blocks to prevent dislodging. Record bait type/qty, location, and access points. Advise clients to keep roof space closed to children/pets. Schedule follow-up checks if activity suspected.
Weather, Sensitivities & Special Cases
- Rain/Wind: Reschedule exterior if heavy rain or strong wind will compromise treatment.
- Sensitive occupants: Babies, pregnancy, respiratory conditions—offer interior bait/gel-first approach; ventilate well.
- Aquariums: Cover/turn off air pumps if label states; confirm with client.
Quality, Safety & Waste
- Protect surfaces and food areas; wipe incidental residues immediately.
- Do not decant into unlabelled containers. Transport and store per SDS.
- Collect and dispose of waste/empties per council and label requirements.
Admin: ServiceM8 & Formitize
- Update Job Card: products used, batch/lot (if required), areas treated, risks, photos.
- Send After-Care email/SMS (prevention tips, drying times, warranty).
- If issues found: tag Follow-Up and propose revisit window.
- Complete any Formitize forms/templates as required.