What to Expect
Know what happens while a property is tented, treated, aerated, monitored, and prepared for clearance.
First Class
Fumigation Guide
Explore each step of the process to learn what to do, what to expect, and how to prepare for a safe and successful fumigation.
The Fumigation Process
Preparing for Fumigation
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What to Expect
Re-entry After Fumigation
Safety & Product Information
What Happens While Your Property Is Under Fumigation?
Once the property has been prepared and vacated, the fumigation crew begins enclosing and securing the structure. Depending on the building and site conditions, the structure may be covered with fumigation tarps or sealed using another approved method designed to contain the fumigant during treatment. Warning signs are posted and access is restricted so no unauthorized person enters the property while fumigation is underway.
After the structure has been secured, the fumigant is introduced by trained fumigation personnel. The amount used and the treatment period are determined from factors specific to the structure and fumigation, including the size of the space, temperature, sealing conditions, and required exposure time. EPA requires site-specific fumigation records documenting these types of treatment factors.
During the treatment period, the property remains unoccupied and secured. Fumigant must be allowed to circulate throughout the enclosed structure for the required amount of time, and no one may enter the fumigated area except as permitted under the product label and applicable safety requirements. Warning signs and access restrictions remain in place throughout this stage.
When the treatment period is complete, the fumigation moves into aeration. The structure is opened and ventilated so the fumigant can dissipate. Current federal sulfuryl fluoride requirements include defined active and passive aeration procedures for residential structures, and California fumigations must also comply with applicable state aeration requirements.
Aeration does not mean the property is immediately ready for occupancy. Before the structure can be released for re-entry, fumigant levels must be measured using an effective clearance device. For residential sulfuryl fluoride fumigation, EPA currently requires the concentration to be confirmed at 1 part per million or less in the breathing zones of each room before the structure is considered cleared for re-entry.
Customers should never enter the property simply because the tarps have been removed or because an estimated completion time has passed. Wait until official clearance has been completed and you have been notified that the structure may be re-entered.
WHAT TO EXPECT
While Your Property Is Under Fumigation
Once the property has been vacated and fumigation begins, access remains restricted until the required treatment, aeration, and clearance procedures are complete. Here are a few things to keep in mind while you are away.
The Property Remains Off-Limits
Once fumigation begins, the structure must remain unoccupied and access is restricted. Do not enter the property for belongings, medications, pets, or any other reason until the fumigation company has completed the required clearance process and the property has been released for re-entry.
Treatment Timing Can Vary
The length of a fumigation can vary based on the property, treatment requirements, weather conditions, and the aeration and clearance process. Any schedule provided in advance should be treated as an estimate until the property has been officially cleared for re-entry.
The Fumigation Crew Manages the Process
While the property is under fumigation, trained fumigation personnel oversee the treatment, aeration, and clearance procedures required for the job. Customers should remain away from the structure and allow the crew to complete each stage without interruption.
Do Not Return for Belongings
Make sure you take everything you may need before leaving the property. Once fumigation has begun, you should not return for clothing, medications, documents, electronics, or other belongings until the property has been officially cleared for re-entry.
Wait for Official Clearance
Do not rely on tarp removal, activity at the property, or an estimated completion time as an indication that it is safe to return. Re-enter only after the required clearance procedures have been completed and you have received official notification that the property has been released for occupancy.
Important to Know
Do not enter the property until you have received official clearance that it is safe to return. Estimated completion times are not the same as re-entry approval.
While You’re Away
Once fumigation is underway, the best thing you can do is remain off the property and allow the fumigation crew to complete the work without interruption. Keep any schedule updates or re-entry instructions from your pest control provider handy, and make sure everyone in your household understands that the property remains restricted until official clearance is given.