Answers to the questions we are asked most often. Can't find yours? Call the office on 01775 720015 or send us a message.
General questions
What happens if the pests come back?
If you are not completely satisfied with our treatment within three months, we will come back and treat again free of charge. Contract customers also get extra visits for covered pests at no charge between their routine visits.
How quickly can you come out?
We are based in Spalding, so we can often get to you the same or next day, especially for urgent jobs like wasp nests. Call the office and we will give you a time.
How much will it cost?
It depends on the pest, the property and how established the problem is. Many jobs can be priced over the phone or from a photo, and we always tell you the price before we start. Our pest control costs guide explains how pricing works.
What about children and pets?
We use non-chemical methods first where they will work. Where we do use professional products, we use them sparingly, place them in secure, tamper-resistant stations, and tell you exactly what to keep children and pets away from.
Are your technicians trained and insured?
Yes. Our technicians are trained to RSPH Level 2 in Pest Management, we are members of the BPCA and the NADC, and we are fully insured.
I don't want the neighbours to know. Are you discreet?
Yes. Pest problems happen to everyone, and we treat every job discreetly. If you would rather we kept a low profile, tell us when you book.
Can I rearrange my appointment?
Of course. Call the office on 01775 720015, Monday to Saturday, 09:00 to 18:00, and we will find a time that suits you.
Can I send you a photo?
Yes, and it often helps us identify the pest and price the job without a visit. Send it on WhatsApp (opens in a new tab) or email it to fergal@ppm-lincs.co.uk.
Rats and mice
Why do rats keep coming back?
Usually because the way in has not been found and fixed. Defective drains, gaps around pipes and damaged airbricks are common routes. We survey for entry points and proof them, so the problem is solved rather than repeated.
Will dead rats smell?
Rodents that die in a wall or under the floor can smell for a while. In homes we often use trap systems, so rodents are removed rather than left, which avoids this.
What about pets and rat bait?
We only use professional rodenticides where they are needed, always inside secure bait stations that pets and children cannot open, and we tell you where every station is.
More about rat and mouse control.
Wasps and bees
Do you need to remove the nest?
Usually not. Once treated, the colony dies off and the nest is not used again. We remove nests where they are causing a problem or are easy to reach.
How long does the treatment take to work?
Activity normally drops within a few hours and the nest dies within a day or two. Keep doors and windows near the nest closed in the meantime.
Can I treat a wasp nest myself?
Shop-bought products exist, but disturbing a nest can provoke a mass attack. For your safety, and especially if anyone in the house is allergic to stings, we recommend a professional treatment.
More about wasp nest treatment.
Bed bugs
How many visits do bed bugs need?
Usually two, about two weeks apart. The second visit deals with bugs that hatch from eggs after the first treatment.
Do I need to throw away my mattress?
Usually not. Mattresses and beds can normally be treated. Throwing furniture out can spread bed bugs to other rooms or homes.
How do I prepare for a bed bug treatment?
We will send you a preparation sheet before the first visit. It covers washing bedding and clothes, clearing floors and keeping belongings in the affected room.
More about bed bug treatment.
Pest control for businesses
Can you help us pass our audit?
Yes. Our contracts are set up around BRCGS and retailer standards, with a site file of reports, risk assessments and records ready for your auditor.
What happens if we have a problem between visits?
Call us. Contract customers have no call-out fees between routine visits, and additional treatments for covered pests are included.
Do we get a report after each visit?
Yes. Our technician reports to your site contact and leaves a written report of findings, treatments and recommendations after every visit.
More about pest control for businesses.
Drainage
Who is responsible for my drains?
In England, you are generally responsible for drains that serve only your property and sit within its boundary. Pipes shared with neighbours, or beyond your boundary, are usually the responsibility of the water company. A CCTV survey shows exactly where a problem is.
What is no-dig pipe lining?
Cure-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining repairs a damaged pipe from the inside. A resin-soaked liner is fitted and cured in place, forming a new pipe within the old one, without digging up your garden or driveway.
What is Picote?
Picote is specialist drain renovation equipment. We use it to cut out roots, scale and hardened fat from inside pipes, to coat the inside of small or old pipes with resin, and to reopen side connections after lining, all without digging.
Should I have the drains surveyed before buying a house?
It is well worth it for older properties or homes with large trees nearby. A survey can spot cracked or root-damaged pipes before you commit.
More about drainage.
Waste and clearances
Do I get a waste transfer note?
Yes, with every job. It shows your waste was taken by a registered carrier and disposed of properly, which protects you under your duty of care.
Can you clear a property for probate?
Yes. We work with solicitors and executors regularly and can combine the clearance with security checks, pest treatment and repairs.
Can you send me a price from photos?
Often, yes. Send us photos on WhatsApp (opens in a new tab) of the rooms or garden to be cleared and we will come back with a price or arrange a visit.
More about waste and clearances.