Bed Bug Extermination Preparation Checklist
Preparing for bed bug extermination is essential to ensure that the treatment is effective and to minimize the risk of reinfestation. The following checklist outlines the steps you must take to properly prepare your home or apartment for bed bug treatment. Please review each item carefully and initial or check off the appropriate box to indicate that you have completed the required tasks.
Bed Bugs Are Tough to Control:
Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to control due to their small size, nocturnal activity, and rapid reproduction rate. A single female bed bug can lay 200-300 eggs in her lifetime, and they can survive without food (blood) for up to 140 days. Due to their ability to hide in tiny cracks and crevices, it’s crucial that you follow these preparation steps meticulously. Without full cooperation, the infestation may spread to neighboring units.
Resident Responsibilities (Please Initial After Reading Each Point)
- ____ I understand that I may need to arrange for family members or friends to help me prepare.
- ____ Remove all loose items from the floor and ensure all items are away from the baseboards (e.g., toys, clothing, etc.).
- ____ I understand that thoroughly cleaning the apartment before treatment will make it easier and more effective. If I use your vacuum, I will dispose of the vacuum bag outside in the loading dock dumpster and tape it shut.
- ____ All furniture must be moved 3 feet from the walls.
- ____ Closets – All floors must be cleared of any objects.
- ____ All shelves must be cleared of any objects.
- ____ All clothing must be removed and stored in ziplock or sealable plastic bags (after washing in hot water).
- ____ Remove all sheets, blankets, mattress covers, and pillowcases from all beds. Wash in hot water (over 120°F) at a high heat setting. After cleaning, place them in plastic bags and do not put them back on the bed until the evening after the pest control service.
- ____ Empty all dresser and nightstand drawers and remove drawers from furniture.
- ____ Remove all clothing, toys, and boxes from bedroom floors. Remove all items under beds and place them in the kitchen.
- ____ Stuffed animals should be placed in the clothes dryer on high heat for 10 minutes.
- ____ Wash all clothing in water temperature of 120°F or higher and dry them on high heat. Place the clean items in plastic storage bins or plastic garbage bags. Store them in the kitchen until after the treatment. When carrying laundry around the building, it should be in a plastic bag, which should be disposed of, and a new plastic bag used for the cleaned clothing.
- ____ Existing beds will be treated based on the condition of the mattress and box springs. If mattresses or box springs are damaged (tears, small holes around buttons, rips in seams), the mattress should be disposed of. We will handle the removal. The mattress will be sealed in plastic before being carried out of the building and marked for destruction before being placed in the dumpster to prevent it from being reused.
- ____ If you wish to keep damaged bedding, you will be required to purchase a customized bed bug mattress and box spring cover. You may purchase it through the pest control vendor and make up to 3 monthly payments.
- ____ Additional furniture such as couches and chairs will be treated based on their condition and severity of infestation. Leather furniture may not be treatable. If furniture is damaged (holes, rips), treatment will not be provided, and the items must be discarded. The community staff will cover and dispose of the furniture to ensure it is not returned to another unit.
- ____ I understand that I should not purchase or accept used furniture, as it is a major source of bed bug infestations.
- ____ If I have a pet, it must be removed from the apartment for at least 4 hours following treatment. Fish tanks should be covered, sealed in plastic, and the air pump turned off for 4 hours.
- ____ Children 10 years old or younger must vacate the apartment during treatment and for four (4) hours following treatment.
- ____ Anyone who is pregnant, has asthma, heart conditions, or any other respiratory issues must vacate the apartment prior to treatment and consult with their physician before re-entering the apartment. If choosing to self-treat, I understand the risks of using chemicals and will follow all directions carefully.
- ____ I understand that I will need to repeat this process in two weeks because bed bug eggs will hatch, and my unit will need to be re-treated.
Why Is This Preparation Important?
Bed bugs can hide in various places around your apartment, such as behind wallpaper, under carpets, in furniture cracks, and in clothing. A thorough cleaning and removal of all clutter will allow the pest control service to target the problem areas effectively. Without your full cooperation, the infestation may not be fully eradicated and could spread to other units. By following the preparation instructions, you are ensuring that the treatment will be as effective as possible.
By Signing Below, You Acknowledge Your Agreement:
By signing this agreement, you are confirming that you understand the preparation steps required for the bed bug extermination process. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in the termination of your tenancy, as bed bug infestations must be controlled to prevent further spread. If you do not sign and follow these instructions, you may be held liable for damages and may not be eligible for treatment.
Resident Signature: ___________________________
Date: ___________________________