Frequently Asked Questions

Expert pest control answers for Kent homes & businesses

Kent Pest Control FAQ

Got questions about pest control, prevention, or treatment in Kent? Pest-Mate has the answers. We help Ashford and Kent homeowners and businesses stay pest-free with fast, local, and expert service.

🐀 Rodent Control

Q: How quickly can you get rid of rats?
A: Most rat infestations can be resolved within 1–2 weeks. We start with immediate baiting and trapping, then seal entry points. Follow-up visits ensure removal.
Q: Are your treatments safe for children and pets?
A: Yes. We use child- and pet-safe treatments. We’ll advise on any temporary precautions needed.
Q: How do I know if I have rats or mice?
A: Rats leave larger droppings (10–20mm), make louder scratching noises, and can climb. Mice leave smaller droppings (3–8mm). We identify during inspection.
Q: Will rats come back after treatment?
A: We proof entry points to prevent re-entry. If new points develop, rats may return. We offer monitoring services.

🐝 Wasp Control

Q: How much does wasp nest removal cost?
A: Domestic jobs start from £90. For commercial jobs, contact us for a quote. Price varies by location and access. Fixed quote provided before work.
Q: Can you remove nests at night?
A: Yes. Wasps are less active at night, making it safer and more effective.
Q: How long does wasp nest removal take?
A: 30–60 minutes typically. We treat the nest and surrounding areas.
Q: What if I'm allergic to stings?
A: We take extra precautions and may ask you to stay indoors. We’re first aid trained.

💰 Pricing & Payment

Q: How much do your services cost?
A: Domestic prices start at £120 (ants) up to £150 (bed bugs). For commercial work, contact us for a quote. Fixed quotes, no hidden fees.
Q: Do you offer payment plans?
A: We accept card, cash, bank transfer. No finance plans, but competitive pricing.
Q: What's your "no-find, no-fee" policy?
A: If no evidence of the reported pest is found during initial inspection, you don't pay.
Q: Do you charge for quotes?
A: No. Quotes and advice are free. Charges only apply to treatment.

🚗 Service & Coverage

Q: What areas do you cover?
A: 25-mile radius from Ashford, Kent. Includes most of Kent + parts of East Sussex & Surrey.
Q: How quickly can you attend?
A: Same-day callouts for urgent issues. Otherwise, within 24–48 hours.
Q: Do you work weekends?
A: Yes. Saturdays for urgent cases. Sundays for emergencies (e.g. wasps near children).
Q: What if I'm not happy with the service?
A: We’ll return at no cost to fix it. Your satisfaction is our priority.

🛡️ Safety & Certification

Q: Are you properly certified?
A: Yes. RSPH Level 2 certified, BPCA certified, and fully insured. Trained in safe pest control.
Q: Are your treatments eco-friendly?
A: We choose eco-friendly and effective treatments. Minimal chemical use.
Q: Do you provide safety certificates?
A: Yes. Useful for landlords, property sales, and insurance claims.
Q: What precautions do you take?
A: PPE, secured treatment zones, and clear instructions are standard.
Q: What levels of insurance do you offer?
A: £10M Public AND Product Liability Cover for your peace of mind.

🔍 Pest Identification & Assessment

Q: How do I know what pest I have?
A: Use our online tool or send photos. We’ll identify and advise.
Q: Can I send you photos?
A: Yes — via our upload form. Speeds up assessment.
Q: What happens to my data/photos?
A: Used only for assessment. Protected under UK GDPR. Never shared.
Q: Can I get real-time help?
A: Yes. Message us on WhatsApp for the fastest response.

🌦 Seasonal & Environmental

Q: Are some pests worse at certain times?
A: Yes. Rats/mice peak in winter; wasps/flies/ants in warmer months.
Q: Do you treat rural areas or farms?
A: Absolutely. We’re equipped for rural cottages, farms, and outbuildings.
Q: Do you offer humane/non-toxic options?
A: Yes. We prioritize humane methods like live traps and deterrents.

🐶 Pet Safety & Follow-up

Q: Do I need to move my pets during treatment?
A: Usually not, but we’ll advise case by case. We care about animal safety.
Q: Do you offer follow-up visits?
A: Yes. Included in most services to verify treatment success.
Q: Can I cancel or reschedule my appointment?
A: Yes — up to 24h in advance. Deposits are non-refundable if late.

📞 Booking & Communication

Q: How do I book a service?
A: Online, by phone (+44 7369 235554), or via WhatsApp. We'll need your postcode and issue description.
Q: Do you provide written quotes?
A: Yes. All work comes with a detailed written quote.
Q: Can I speak to Dan directly?
A: Yes. Dan is the owner and lead technician. Call or WhatsApp him personally.

🐛 Common Pests We Treat

🐀 Rodents: Rats, mice, squirrels
🐝 Flying Insects: Wasps, bees, cluster flies
🐜 Crawling Insects: Ants, cockroaches, silverfish
🦟 Parasites: Bed bugs, fleas, clothes moths
🦡 Garden Pests: Moles, woodlice, garden ants
🦇 Protected Species: Bats, birds (advice only)
Don’t see your pest? Contact us — we likely treat it.