FAQs

About Yankee Pest Control

Is Yankee Pest Control a national brand?

No. Even though we offer the same type of service that national brands do, we are proudly a local New England company. We like to say we’re large enough to have all the tools necessary to solve any problem…and small enough to care about each customer’s needs. 

What does it mean that you’re a Quality Pro Company?

QualityPro is the pest management industry’s leading credentialing program. QualityPro sets the standards of excellence for professional pest management companies and their employees through education, training and certification, providing consumers protection and confidence when selecting a nationally accredited company. Accredited companies are on the cutting edge of professionalizing the industry.

Are your technicians licensed and trained in pest control best practices?

Yes, we are accredited by QualityPro— the pest management industry’s leading credentialing program. QualityPro sets the standards of excellence for professional pest management companies and accredited companies are on the cutting edge of professionalizing the industry.

Yankee Pest Control is proud to hold the following certifications and affiliations:

New England Pest Management Association (NEPMA) 

National Pest Management Association (NPMA)

Entomological Society of America (ESA)

Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business

American Society of Home Inspectors

Quality Pro Certified

Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office

Do you ever treat outside your service area?

If you find yourself living outside our service area and would like to have the team at Yankee handle your pest control problem, please reach out to us!

What is IPM?

IPM stands for Integrated Pest Management. IPM is a broad-based approach to pest control that minimizes risks to people and the environment by focusing on a combination of techniques, such as biological control, habitat manipulation, and modification of cultural practices. It can be used to manage all kinds of pests in all kinds of environments and aims to remove only the target pest.

For Home

Are your pest control treatments safe for my family and pets?

Yes, our pest control treatments prioritize safety. We use environmentally friendly and pet-friendly solutions, ensuring the well-being of your family and pets while effectively eliminating pests from your home.

How often should I schedule pest control services for my home?

The frequency of pest control services for your home or business depends on factors such as your location, the severity of pest issues, and the type of treatment used. Yankee Pest Service treatment plans are designed to keep your home or business pest-free.

Are pests only a problem in the summer?

Unfortunately, no. In New England, you’ll find different pests at different times of the year—from ants and crawling insects in spring and summer, to wasps in summer into fall, and mice and rats in winter. That’s one of the reasons our year-round pest management plans are so popular.

What should I do before a pest control treatment?

Don’t worry! We’ll let you know what (or if) you need to do anything to prepare for a pest control treatment. We’ll also make sure you’re comfortable with any and all treatments.

For Business

In my industry, it’s not a good look to have pest problems. Are you discreet?

Absolutely. We completely understand the sensitivity involved with our industry—and the detrimental effect it can have on yours. You can trust us to get rid of your pests thoroughly and discreetly.

Do you have experience with compliance standards and regulations for our industry?

Yes. We have experience with a variety of industries, including healthcare, food service + restaurants, retail, schools, warehouse + distribution, property management, and hotels. When you’ve been in the business as long as we have, you know what industry requires.

Do you handle emergency pest situations?

We understand that pests can disrupt business operations and will work quickly and effectively to mitigate any pest infestations you may be experiencing. Call us, and we’ll have someone out to you assessing the situation the same day.

Are your technicians licensed and trained in pest control best practices?

Yes, we are accredited by QualityPro— the pest management industry’s leading credentialing program. QualityPro sets the standards of excellence for professional pest management companies and their employees through education, training and certification, providing consumers protection and confidence when selecting a nationally accredited company. Accredited companies are on the cutting edge of professionalizing the industry.

Ants

Does it mean I have a dirty home if I get ants?

While poor sanitation can attract ants, having a clean home doesn’t guarantee you won’t get ant infestations. 

Ants are drawn to food sources, and even well-maintained homes can inadvertently provide access to crumbs, spills, or other attractive substances. Additionally, ants may enter homes in search of water or shelter. Regular cleaning and sealing potential entry points can help reduce the risk of ant infestations—regardless of the cleanliness of the home.

Can I get rid of ants myself?

There are some general steps you can take to get rid of ants:

Cleanliness: Keep your living spaces clean. Wipe up spills, seal food containers, and regularly clean crumbs and food residues.

Sealing Entry Points: Identify and seal entry points where ants may be coming into your home. This could include cracks in walls, windows, or doors.

Natural Repellents: Certain substances, like vinegar, lemon, cinnamon, or coffee grounds, can act as natural ant repellents. Sprinkle or place these items near entry points.

Baits: Use ant baits to attract and eliminate ant colonies. These baits typically contain slow-acting pesticides that the worker ants bring back to the colony.

Diatomaceous Earth: This powder, made from fossilized diatoms, can be sprinkled near ant trails and entry points. It is harmless to humans and pets but can be effective against insects with exoskeletons.

Boric Acid: Mix boric acid with a sweet substance (like sugar or honey) and place it where ants are active. The worker ants will carry it back to the colony, where it can eliminate the entire colony.

That being said, if the ant infestation is severe or persistent, or if you’re dealing with certain ant species, such as carpenter ants or fire ants, it’s advisable to consult with a professional pest control service for more targeted and effective solutions. Call Yankee Pest Services.

Cockroaches

Why are cockroaches such a problem?

Cockroaches are problematic for a variety of reasons. Here are some of them:

Disease Transmission: Cockroaches are known carriers of various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. They can pick up pathogens from unsanitary environments and transfer them to food preparation surfaces and utensils, leading to foodborne illnesses in humans.

Allergies and Asthma: Cockroach droppings, shed skin, saliva, and body parts contain allergens that can trigger allergic reactions and worsen asthma symptoms, especially in sensitive individuals.

Contamination: Cockroaches can contaminate food, water, and surfaces by leaving behind feces, saliva, and shed skin. This contamination poses health risks and compromises hygiene.

Unpleasant Odors: Cockroach infestations often come with unpleasant and distinct odors that can permeate living spaces, making them uncomfortable to inhabit.

Rapid Reproduction: Cockroaches reproduce quickly, leading to exponential population growth in a short period. This makes infestations difficult to control without timely intervention.

Structural Damage: Some cockroach species can cause damage to household items, including books, fabrics, and furniture, by feeding on organic materials.

Negative Perception: Cockroach infestations can harm a property’s reputation and resale value, making it challenging to rent or sell a space.

Can I get rid of cockroaches myself?

You can try to get rid of cockroaches on your own, especially if the infestation is minor, however, successful cockroach control can be challenging. Tor more significant infestations or persistent problems, seeking professional pest control assistance might be the most effective option. 

Here are some steps you can take to address a cockroach infestation yourself:

Identify the Problem: Properly identify the species of cockroach you’re dealing with, as different species may have different behaviors and habits.

Sanitation and Cleaning: Keep your living space clean and eliminate potential food and water sources that attract cockroaches. Regularly clean surfaces, sweep floors, and promptly clean up spills.

Seal Entry Points: Seal cracks, gaps, and openings where cockroaches might enter your home. Focus on areas around doors, windows, plumbing, and utility openings.

Remove Clutter: Reduce clutter, especially in storage areas like basements, attics, and closets, as clutter can provide hiding places for cockroaches.

Eliminate Hiding Places: Clear out and declutter areas where cockroaches could hide, such as behind appliances, under sinks, and in dark corners.

Use Cockroach Baits: Place cockroach baits or traps in areas where cockroaches are commonly seen. These baits contain insecticides that cockroaches will carry back to their nests.

DIY Insecticides: Consider using cockroach-specific insecticides, sprays, or dusts. Follow the instructions carefully and apply them to cracks, crevices, and hiding spots.

Limit Moisture: Cockroaches are attracted to moisture, so fix leaky pipes, repair faucets, and improve ventilation in damp areas.

Repeat Treatments: Cockroach populations can rebound quickly, so be prepared to repeat treatments as necessary.

Monitor and Inspect: Continuously monitor for cockroach activity and regularly inspect potential problem areas.

While these steps can be effective for small cockroach problems, they may not eliminate larger or persistent infestations. Cockroaches are known for their ability to adapt and survive, so professional pest control services might be required for more challenging situations. Professionals have access to more potent treatments and can customize solutions based on the severity of the infestation. If your efforts are not yielding the desired results, or if the infestation seems beyond your control, call Yankee Pest Services.

Rodents

How can I tell if I have a rodent infestation?

There are a few signs you can look for to see if you have a rodent infestation. Here are some of the most common:

Droppings: Rodents frequently leave droppings behind as they move about. Mouse droppings are small and resemble rice grains, while rat droppings are larger and shaped like capsules. Finding droppings in areas like the kitchen, pantry, or along walls is a clear sign of rodent activity.

Gnaw Marks: Rodents have strong teeth and gnaw on various materials. Look for gnaw marks on wires, insulation, wood, cardboard, and other items. Fresh gnaw marks will be lighter in color.

Nesting Materials: Rodents build nests using materials they find in your home, such as paper, fabric, and insulation. Discovering nests in hidden spaces, like attics, basements, or wall voids, is a sign of an infestation.

Scratching Noises: Rodents are active at night, and you may hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds coming from walls, ceilings, or crawl spaces, particularly when it’s quiet.

Visible Rodents: Occasionally, you may spot live rodents, especially during the evening hours. Mice are typically smaller, while rats are larger and more visible.

Pet Behavior: If your pets suddenly become more agitated or focused on a particular area, they may be sensing the presence of rodents.

Grease Marks: Rodents often leave grease or dirt marks along their regular travel paths. You might notice dark, greasy streaks on walls, baseboards, or along corners.

Chewed Packaging: Check food packaging in your pantry for signs of gnawing or holes. Rodents often contaminate food items and packaging.

Unexplained Pet Illness: Rodents can carry diseases and parasites. If your pets become sick without an apparent cause, it may be related to rodent activity.

Odors: Rodent infestations can lead to unpleasant odors due to urine, feces, and decaying rodents in hidden spaces. These odors may be particularly noticeable in enclosed areas.

Dirt or Rub Marks: Rodents frequently travel along walls and create dirt or rub marks as they brush against surfaces.

Do rodents pose a health risk?

Unfortunately, yes. Rodents can pose significant health risks to humans. They are known carriers of various diseases, such as hantavirus, salmonella, leptospirosis, rat-bite fever, asthma and allergies, parasitic infections, and bacterial infections, and can transmit these diseases through direct contact with their urine, feces, saliva, or bites. 

What is the best method for getting rid of rodents?

The best method for getting rid of rodents depends on the specific circumstances of your infestation, including the type of rodent, the extent of the problem, and your preferences for pest control. A combination of methods is often the most effective approach.

How can I prevent rodents from returning?

Preventing rodents from returning to your home is crucial to maintaining a rodent-free environment. Here are some effective preventive measures to help you keep rodents at bay:

  • Seal entry points, including gaps, cracks, and holes in walls, foundations, doors and windows
  • Install door sweeps on exterior doors to block gaps at the bottom. Use screens on windows, vents, and chimneys 
  • Trim bushes, shrubs, and tree branches near your home, keeping them at least 18 inches away from your exterior walls and roof. 
  • Store all food, including pet food, in airtight containers made of glass or metal. Keep pantry shelves clean and free of crumbs.
  • Use rodent-resistant trash cans with secure lids. Make sure garbage cans are kept clean and lids are tightly closed.
  • Regularly clean your home, including regular vacuuming and cleaning to eliminate crumbs and food residues.
  • Make sure downspouts and gutters direct water away from your home’s foundation. 
  • Declutter home, basement, attic and garage to eliminate potential nesting sites.
  • Don’t leave pet food out overnight. Store it in sealed containers, and clean up any spilled food promptly.
  • Store firewood, construction materials, and other outdoor items at least 18 inches above the ground and away from your home’s foundation. 
  • Periodically inspect your property for signs of rodent activity to catch any potential problems early. We can do this for you as part of our Healthy Homes Protection Plans.
Are there humane ways to deal with rodents?

Yes, there are humane ways to deal with rodents, such as using live trap and release and Integrated Pest Management (IPM)—both of which are used by Yankee Pest Control.

While humane methods can be effective, they may not always be practical for severe infestations or specific situations where rodents pose a significant health or safety risk. Additionally, releasing rodents into new environments can potentially introduce them to other wildlife and disrupt local ecosystems, so it should be done responsibly and in compliance with local regulations.

Can I handle rodent control on my own?

Yes, you can handle rodent control on your own, especially for minor infestations. If you have a larger infestation though, it becomes challenging, and it may make more sense to call Yankee Pest Control at (781) 397-9923.

If you want to try to manage rodent control on your own, here are some steps you can take:

  • Figure out which type of rodent you are dealing with (e.g., mice or rats) and how big the infestation is. This will help you choose the most appropriate control methods.
  • Research rodent behavior, habits, and biology to better understand how to effectively control them.
  • Choose control methods based on your knowledge of rodent behavior. Common DIY methods include traps (snap traps or live traps), rodenticides (know state laws and act with caution and according to instructions particularly around children and pets), and preventive measures.
  • Take safety precautions when handling traps or rodenticides. Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning up rodent droppings or nesting materials to avoid potential exposure to disease.
  • Place traps or rodenticides in areas where rodents are known to frequent, such as along walls, near entry points, or where you’ve seen signs of activity (droppings, gnaw marks).
  • Use suitable bait for traps, such as peanut butter, cheese, or commercially available bait. Follow instructions carefully.
  • Regularly check traps and replace bait as needed. Remove captured rodents promptly to prevent odors and attract other pests.
  • Identify and seal potential entry points into your home using materials like steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth.
  • Maintain cleanliness throughout your home, especially in the kitchen and pantry, to eliminate food sources and reduce attractiveness to rodents.
  • Implement preventive measures, such as trimming vegetation near your home, proper food storage, and reducing clutter.
  • Periodically inspect your property for signs of rodent activity to catch any potential problems early.
  • Stay patient and persistent. Continue your efforts until you are sure the infestation is under control.

If you have a severe or persistent rodent infestation, or if you are uncomfortable handling the infestation on your own, give us a call at (781) 397-9923. We have the expertise, equipment, and resources to effectively address rodent problems, especially in complex or challenging situations.

Termites

Are there termites in New England?

Yes, although termites are more commonly found in warmer climates, they can still be present in the northeastern United States, including New England.

Termites can cause significant damage to wooden structures, including homes, by feeding on the cellulose found in wood. It’s important for homeowners and property owners in New England to be aware of the potential presence of termites and take preventive measures, such as regular inspections and maintaining proper moisture control, to minimize the risk of infestations.

Can I get rid of termites myself?

Getting rid of termites yourself can be a challenging and complex task, especially if the infestation is significant. Termites are highly destructive pests that can cause extensive damage to structures, and their colonies can be difficult to locate and eliminate without proper expertise and tools. Here are some considerations if you’re thinking about addressing a termite infestation on your own:

Identification: Properly identifying the type of termites and the extent of the infestation is crucial. Different termite species require different treatment approaches.

Knowledge and Experience: Effective termite control requires knowledge of termite behavior, lifecycle, and treatment methods. Improper treatment can worsen the infestation.

Access to Effective Products: Termite control products available to the general public may not be as potent or targeted as those used by professionals.

Treatment Precision: Successful termite elimination often requires pinpointing the termite colony and treating it directly, which can be challenging without professional training.

Safety Concerns: Some termite control methods involve the use of chemicals that can be hazardous if not handled correctly.

Prevention and Long-Term Solutions: Effective termite control includes not only eliminating existing colonies but also implementing preventive measures to avoid future infestations.

Cost Considerations: DIY attempts may initially seem more cost-effective, but if not successful, they can lead to greater expenses in repairs and professional treatment.

If you’re dealing with a termite infestation, it’s generally recommended to consult a professional pest control company. Professionals have the expertise, specialized equipment, and access to effective treatment options necessary to effectively eliminate termites and prevent further damage to your property.

Ticks + Mosquitoes

What are ticks and why are they a concern? 

Ticks are small arachnids that feed on the blood of animals and humans. They can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis, among others.

Where do ticks usually live?

Ticks thrive in wooded areas, grasslands, and places with tall vegetation. They can attach themselves to humans and animals as they pass by.

Where do mosquitoes breed?

Mosquitoes typically breed in standing water, such as ponds, puddles, and containers. Eliminating standing water around your home can help reduce mosquito populations.

What diseases are transmitted by mosquitoes in New England?

Mosquitoes in New England can transmit several diseases to humans, including:

West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Zika Virus, Anaplasmosis, and Heartworm (in pets).

Schedule an Appointment (781) 397-9923