Moving Into a New Home: A First-Week Pest Prevention Plan

The first week sets the tone for a pest-free home.

Follow this checklist.

The short answer

On arrival, inspect kitchens, bathrooms and cupboards, clean and wipe surfaces, seal visible gaps, run taps to flush drains, keep food in airtight containers, unpack boxes outdoors or in a single area, set up monitoring traps and note any signs. Book a professional inspection if you find anything.

Day 1

1. Ventilate the home.
2. Inspect for droppings, mud tubes or insects.
3. Wipe kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

Days 2 to 4

• Unpack boxes and dispose of cartons.
• Seal gaps.
• Set up traps and monitors.

Days 5 to 7

• Check for new signs.
• Book treatment if needed.
• Establish waste and cleaning routines.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Should I treat before moving in?

If possible, yes.

What about cartons?

Dispose of them quickly.

How do I know it's clean?

Monitor with traps.

Who do I call?

A professional if you find signs.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on pest control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full pest control guide for Bangalore.