Tent Fumigation Preparation Checklist
Good preparation is the difference between a smooth fumigation and a stressful one. Work through this checklist in the week before your tent date, and call us at (407) 476-3589 with anything you are unsure about. Your coordinator will confirm the plan before the crew arrives.
Inside the Home
- Bag food, medicine and pet items. Double-bag anything edible or ingestible that is not factory-sealed in glass or metal: opened packages, produce, bread, spices in paper, pet food, vitamins and medicine. Use the nylon bags we provide; they are made for fumigation.
- Remove or bag: baby formula and food, ice, and anything in the refrigerator or freezer that is not sealed in its original airtight packaging.
- Open everything. Drawers, cabinets, closets, safes, appliances and interior doors are left open so fumigant reaches everywhere. Open blinds and curtains.
- Unplug heat-sensitive items as instructed (some electronics and all aquarium equipment), and switch off gas appliances per your coordinator's list.
- Plan valuables. Take jewelry, documents, cash and irreplaceables with you. The home is secured, but peace of mind travels better.
Outside the Home
- Trim and move plants so nothing touches the exterior walls where the tarp seals. Potted plants near the house move at least a few feet out or go with a neighbor.
- Wet the soil around the foundation the day before if your coordinator asks; it helps the tarp seal.
- Clear the perimeter: move grills, bikes, stored items and vehicles away from the walls. Unlock gates and arrange access for the crew.
- Antennas and roof items: let us know about satellite dishes, solar panels or fragile roof features ahead of time.
People and Pets
- Everyone and every pet stays out from tenting until clearance is posted, usually 2 to 3 nights.
- Fish cannot remain in the home. Board them with a friend or pet store.
- Book lodging early in swarm season; ask us about timing so you are not paying for extra nights.
Day-Of and Return
On tent day, do a final walk-through with the crew chief, hand over keys, and confirm contact numbers. When the treatment is complete we aerate the home, test the air with calibrated instruments, and post a clearance notice on the door. Only then is it safe to return, and at that point no cleaning is required before normal use.
Printable version: ask your coordinator for the one-page PDF checklist, or print this page. For the treatment itself, see how tent fumigation works.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to stay out of my home?
Plan for 2 to 3 nights. The tent is usually on for 24 to 36 hours, followed by aeration and clearance testing before you can return.
What food has to be bagged?
Anything edible that is not in an unopened glass, metal or factory-sealed container: open packages, produce, pantry items, pet food, plus all medicine and vitamins. Items are double-bagged in special nylon fumigation bags or removed from the home.
Do I need to wash dishes and clothes after fumigation?
No. The fumigant leaves no residue on surfaces, dishes, clothing or furniture. Once the home is cleared, everything is safe to use as normal. Many customers wipe counters out of habit, but it is not required.
What about my plants and aquarium?
Plants within about a foot of the exterior walls should be moved or trimmed back so the tarp can seal, and indoor plants should go out with you. Fish tanks cannot stay: fish must be boarded or rehomed temporarily.
Who turns my gas and appliances off?
Your coordinator gives you the exact list for your home. Typically the gas is shut off by the utility or a licensed tech, water heaters and pilot lights are handled per the fumigator's instructions, and alarms are coordinated so the tenting does not trigger a response.
Questions about your prep?
Call (407) 476-3589 or send the form and a coordinator will walk your home through it.