Fumigation treats a whole structure at once. The building is sealed under tarps and filled with a gas that moves through walls, furniture and stored belongings. It is the most complete bed bug option and is kept for cases where bugs have spread throughout a building.
When to Consider It
- Bed bugs are found in most rooms of the structure.
- Earlier heat or chemical treatment failed.
- The volume of furnishings makes item-by-item treatment impractical.
- A guest house or smaller building needs everything treated at once.
How Structural Fumigation Works in California
- PlanningThe structure is measured and you receive a list of items to bag or take out.
- TentingTarps seal the building and warning signs are posted.
- FumigationA licensed fumigator releases the gas for the set exposure time.
- ClearanceTarps come down, the building airs out and the air is tested.
Fumigation and Rancho Santa Fe Properties
Tenting a large custom home with tile roofs, courtyards and mature landscaping takes careful planning, and the cost per square foot adds up fast on a big house. On an estate, fumigation is more often used for a single outbuilding, such as a guest house, while the main home gets heat. Ask the company to explain why tenting is being recommended over other methods.
How to Prepare
- Remove food, medicines and pet food, or seal them in the bags provided.
- Plan 2 to 3 nights away for people, pets and staff who live on site.
- Water plantings along the foundation and trim back anything touching the walls.
- Arrange gate access for the tenting and clearance crews.
Questions About Fumigation
When is it safe to go back inside?
After a licensed fumigator has aired out the structure and air testing shows it is clear.
Does fumigation prevent bed bugs from returning?
No. The gas leaves nothing behind, so bugs carried in later can start over. Many companies follow up with a residual treatment.
How your call is handled: Bed Bug Control CA is a free referral service. When you call or send the form, you are connected with an independent, licensed pest control company that serves Rancho Santa Fe. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.