Signs That Your Fumigation or Pest Control Was Not Done the Right Way
When you call in a fumigation or pest control service in Nairobi Kenya, the expectation is simple get rid of pests effectively and safely. Whether it’s cockroaches, termites, bedbugs, rats, or ants, a professional extermination should leave your home or office pest free and feeling fresh. But what happens when things don’t go as planned? How do you know if the service was poorly executed?
Unfortunately, many people only realize too late that their pest control wasn’t handled properly. In this article, we explore the key signs that your fumigation or pest control was not done the right way, and what you can do to fix it.
1. Pest Activity Resumes Within a Few Days
The biggest red flag is seeing pests again shortly after treatment — we’re talking within days or a week. Professional pest control should provide immediate and lasting relief. While it’s normal to see a few dead pests after fumigation, ongoing live activity means the job wasn’t thorough. If cockroaches are roaming your kitchen at night or bedbugs still bite after fumigation, it’s time to call back the company or look for a better provider.
2. Lack of Inspection or Assessment Before the Job
A credible pest control expert will always inspect the property first. They’ll identify the extent of the infestation, entry points, nesting areas, and the correct treatment plan. If the fumigator just walked in, sprayed randomly, and left without an assessment that’s a major sign of unprofessionalism.
Good fumigation begins with proper diagnosis, just like in medicine. Skipping this step usually leads to poor results and recurring infestations.
3. No Visible Change in Pest Behavior
After a proper treatment, you should see an immediate impact on pests. For instance, cockroaches should become sluggish, come out of hiding, and die within hours. If you still see pests acting normally days after the service hiding in the same spots, reproducing, and moving freely then the pesticides used were likely ineffective or improperly applied.
4. No Follow-Up or Aftercare Instructions
A reputable fumigation company will always provide aftercare guidelines. This could include:
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When it’s safe to re-enter the space.
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How to clean surfaces post-treatment.
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What not to do (e.g., mopping immediately after spraying).
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Recommendations for sealing cracks or removing food sources.
If your service provider didn’t explain any of this or failed to schedule a follow-up visit, that’s a sign they were only interested in a quick job, not long-term results.
5. Overwhelming or Toxic Odors Lingering for Days
Some smell after fumigation is normal especially with chemical treatments. But if the odor is so overpowering or persistent that it causes headaches, dizziness, or nausea days later, then something is wrong. It could be:
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Overuse of chemicals.
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Use of banned or low-quality pesticides.
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Lack of ventilation.
A professional will always use eco-friendly, safe products in the correct quantities and advise you on safe re-entry.
6. You Still Have Bite Marks or Allergic Reactions
If bedbugs were the target and you’re still waking up with itchy red spots, that’s a clear sign the infestation wasn’t properly addressed. The same goes for ant bites, cockroach allergies, or flea rashes. These symptoms should disappear within days if the fumigation was done right. Persistent bites mean that some nests or eggs were missed, or the pest control didn’t cover the entire home.
7. No Proof of License or Certification
Pest control is not just about spraying chemicals — it’s a technical job that requires training, certification, and experience. If your service provider couldn’t show proof of licensing, insurance, or didn’t wear protective gear, then chances are they’re operating below industry standards.
Unlicensed fumigators may use substandard or counterfeit chemicals that are harmful and ineffective.
8. Traps and Baits Left Unchecked
Rodent control often involves traps and baits that need monitoring and replacement. If your provider placed traps and never returned to check them, or didn’t advise you on how to monitor them, they left the job incomplete.
Proper rodent control includes follow-up to make sure all pests are eliminated and no new ones are entering.
9. Pests Shift Locations Instead of Dying
If you notice pests have simply moved from one area of your home to another (for example, from the kitchen to the living room), it means the treatment only disrupted the infestation — it didn’t eliminate it.
This happens when the fumigation targets only visible areas and ignores hiding spots, cracks, and nesting sites.
10. No Written Report or Service Guarantee
Professional pest control companies usually offer:
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A written report of what was done.
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The chemicals used.
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Areas treated.
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A guarantee or warranty (e.g., 30-day or 3-month coverage).
If you got no documentation and no guarantee, that’s a big red flag. Reputable companies want to be accountable for their work.
What to Do If You Suspect a Poor Pest Control Job
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, here are some steps you can take:
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Contact the service provider – They may offer a re-spray or second treatment at no extra cost.
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Document evidence – Take photos or videos of the pests, especially with timestamps.
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Get a second opinion – Another professional can inspect your home and confirm if the previous job was substandard.
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Leave reviews – Help others avoid poor service by sharing your experience online.
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Choose a licensed company next time – Always check for certification, reviews, and past experience before hiring a fumigation company.
Pest control is essential not just for comfort, but also for health and hygiene. But when poorly done, it becomes a frustrating, recurring expense. The key to avoiding this is to work with licensed, experienced, and reputable fumigation companies that prioritize thorough inspection, treatment, and follow-up. If you’re in Nairobi or any other part of Kenya and have been let down by a previous fumigator, don’t settle. Seek out professionals who get the job done right the first time.