Have you ever noticed fleas jumping around your house? If you have, you might be wondering can fleas live in carpet. Or whether the can make a home in your soft furnishing. This is a common concern if you own pets.

Unfortunately, fleas can easily make their way into furniture, rugs and carpeting – and multiply quickly. This means it’s important to take action immediately if you notice even a few fleas on your carpet or upholstery.

In this post, we will be looking at the answer to the question can fleas live in carpet in a bit more detail. And explain how you can get rid of them from your furniture.

The Source of the Problem

In a domestic setting there are several origins of flea infestations. One is through used furniture that is infested when you bought it in. Another is, surprisingly, carrying them in on shoes and trouser bottoms. People without pets can get fleas in either of these ways.

The other is having pets bring fleas into the home and spreading them to your carpets and furniture. Even if your pets were not the origin, they will soon play host to the fleas anyway. If you notice fleas on your pet, get them to the vet immediately. They will check them for fleas and treat them accordingly. Do this before you start to treat your carpets and furniture. If you do it after, the fleas on your pet will simply infest your home again.

Taking action quickly saves you dealing with a lot of bother further down the road. Ousting fleas from carpets and furniture is a lot easier if there isn’t a heavy infestation.

Check, Treat and Clean

Even if you’ve only seen fleas on one item of furniture, it’s still important to check all soft furnishings. Go through your entire home and check for any signs of fleas. It’s very possible they will have spread to other rooms in your home.

After removing fleas from your furniture, turn your focus to the carpets. Treat them  first, then clean them throughout the house. Now you know the answer to the question of can fleas live in carpet, you will want to do this thoroughly.

Call a Pest Expert Quickly

Can fleas live in carpet? Yes, they can. And when they do, they will multiply quickly. In fact,  within three weeks, a minor infestation can become very serious. Because they spread so fast, it’s vital you take action as soon as you see any signs of an infestation.

Call Diamond anytime, day or night and we will come and treat your house professionally. Waiting even a week could turn into a severe situation. Contact us as soon as possible to avoid a costly intervention.

London and rats seem to go together like pie and mash. However, in the past few years there have been reports of record numbers of complaints of rats in the city.

In fact, between 2012 and 2017, there was more than 186,000 complaints in the capital. That is one big London rat problem.

To break that number down a little – that’s 100 complaints of rats a day. And it seems the London rat problem is only getting worse. Why is it that? We will look at some of the main reasons why in the following post.

Resistance to Poisons

One of the main reasons why the London rat problem is getting worse, could be that rats – and rodents in general – are building up resistance to traditional poisons. This is, at least in part, down to the fact many people take a DIY approach to pest control when dealing with rats. This by and large involves the use of poison. What’s the problem with that, you may be wondering?

Well, because they are not experienced pest control specialists, people often use either the wrong type of poison, or not enough of it to kill off the rats. This then allows the rat to build up a tolerance for the poison, a resistance which gradually spreads genetically through the generations.

Human Population Affects The London Rat Problem

The human population in London has always been incredibly high. There really are a lot of people living here. The problem is though, that there is no sign of the population reducing. l

What does this have to do with rats, you may ask? Well, what happens when you have more and more people living in one area? You have more and more rubbish and more waste being dumped. Even a city as big of London has its breaking point.

And although there are plenty of people who dispose of their rubbish in the correct manner, there are always those who don’t. With the growing waste, comes the growing number of rats.

Besides, rats are wily and adaptable. They are always looking for their next meal. Even rubbish that has been discarded contentiously often poses little challenge to a hungry rodent.

An Integrated and Professional Solution Is Needed

Essentially, the main reason the London rat problem is getting worse is because it is not being dealt with properly and efficiently by the authorities. Only when there is an integrated pest control solution put into place by borough councils, will we see a reduction in London rat numbers. Until then, you can rely on Diamond to help you out. If you are one of the many people affected by the recent surge in rat numbers, give us a call.

Technology plays a huge part in our modern world. Which is why it’s no surprise that it’s come to our industry in the shape of an infrared camera for pest control.

This exciting new tool can help locate pest infestations that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.

There are a lot of questions surrounding this new bit of tech. Which is why we’ve decided to give you a bit more information about it.

How Does An Infrared Camera For Pest Control Work?

Using an infrared camera for pest control is relatively straightforward. The process has been designed to use infrared light to seek out objects that emit heat. And what emits a lot of heat? Pests of course. An infrared camera is incredibly sensitive. But, when adjusted properly, an infrared camera for pest control can be very effective.

An infrared camera is handy for pest control, because the images it produces shows up nests and other hidden pest locations. The process itself is non-invasive, meaning that it won’t cause any harm to your property or the people residing there.

Where Do We Use Infrared Cameras?

This new technology has been specifically designed for use inside of buildings. The camera is brilliant at looking between walls, and in spaces that otherwise wouldn’t be visible as part of an inspection.

What Pests Does The Camera Detect?

There are a number of different pests the infrared camera will pick up.

Insects

Nests of insects generate a lot of warmth. This heat can be picked up using infrared detection. The camera pinpoints exactly where they are, and exactly how big the nest is.

Rodents

Rats and mice love to live in tight spaces, making wall cavities the perfect place for them to nest.

Their body heat is easily picked up by an infrared camera. This makes it the perfect tool to find hidden rodents nests around your home or business.

Damp

Many pests are attracted to areas where there is moisture. Because moisture will react with heat, an infrared camera can also be used to find areas of damp. Then you can eliminate it, stopping the threat of pests.

Can I Do This Myself?

Using infrared cameras to find pests in your property is not something you should do yourself. The use of the camera requires proper training, and it also has to be calibrated properly. This is why you should always leave it to the professionals, even if you are a tech addict!

Have you noticed every autumn there is an alarming number of spiders in your home? Okay, this may only be alarming if you’re not a fan of these hairy little eight-legged creatures.

Many people have serious phobias. So, alarming seems like the best way to describe it.

Why does there always seem to be a UK spider invasion at this time of year? Why do they choose your house?

If you’re worried that it may be because they are finding a way into your home to deliberate scare you, think again. The real reasons why there is a surge of those ugly, big and hairy spiders running around your house are far more…interesting?

They Don’t Come From Outside

That’s right, they don’t search for ways to get inside your home. The UK spider invasion involves spiders that are already in your home.

Those spiders you see scuttling across the carpet as you’re trying to enjoy your dinner, or some Netflix are male house spiders that were born and bred in your home during springtime.

They’ve been waiting around, hiding in the dark, eating and preparing themselves to pounce. Don’t worry – not on you!

UK Spider Invasion – Why?

In fact, it’s fair to say that like most male animals, those big house spiders are only after one thing. A female to sire some offspring with. They tend to be more mobile than their female counterparts, who are decidedly more sedentary.

Why Do They Like Our Homes So Much?

Another reason why they tend to stay in our homes is because of the ideal indoor climate. They crave the warmth and dry environment of our homes.

You are unlikely to see them out and about creating webs in the garden. This is because the house spiders we have all come into contact with at some point, are actually descended from North African and Mediterranean species. This is why t

There are some huge ones that may be lurking in your garden, but there’s no need to worry about those. Those big garden spiders don’t want to come in your house. They are happy to stay out in the cool breeze of the British autumn.

So, next time you are wondering why there seems to be a UK spider invasion during autumn, you‘ll know why. If you come across them, remember they are not out for your blood, but are looking for a cold-blooded mate.

When choosing a mice exterminator, London residents may find themselves at a loss for where to start.

Proper mice control in London should not only eliminate the mice on the property, but also prevent future infestations.

Here are our top tips on how to choose the right London mice exterminator for you.

Mice Exterminator London Qualifications

A mice exterminator should have all of the right training to deal with the issue. When looking for a mice exterminator, London dwellers should check that all training is up to date. A pest controller should be able to provide proof of this upon asking. With a fully trained mice exterminator, London homes will benefit from the latest mice prevention methods, safety laws and products.

Look At Online Reviews

Friends and family may have some great recommendations when it comes to choosing the right mice exterminator. Don’t just look at the pest control adverts for information.

Look online and research the company properly, reading their recent reviews. For example, Diamond has years’ worth of 5 star reviews from happy customers. You can also ask us to show you past customer references.

The Mice Exterminator‘s Experience

Londoners should also be looking at how long the company has been in business. A lot of years behind a business like Diamond will usually equate to the best option on the market. Plus, it does give you some peace of mind on how we treat our customers. Feel free to ask us what training we give our exterminators. Also, remember to ask how much experience a company has in handling your specific pest problem.

Check Out Pricing

One of the best things you can do is get estimates from London mice exterminators. As with Diamond, a quote shouldn’t cost you anything.

Compare the costs across the board to see how you can get the most bang for your buck. Diamond, for example, are very cost effective. It’s also a good idea to find out if the company you want to go with will offer you a guarantee as part of the deal.

How’s The Customer Service?

Mice exterminators should be attentive to your needs, as having a mouse problem can be stressful. A company that has shoddy customer service isn’t going to deliver the best results. You want a mice exterminator that is more than willing to go through the entire treatment plan, as well as detailing the products they’ll use. Diamond are prepared to do just that. Employees of any good pest control business should also be able to give advice and guidance in a friendly and understandable way.

Have you ever pulled an old book off the shelf – or moved something in the bathroom – and have silverfish dart out? Just the presence of silverfish in your home is less than pleasant.

But it can be even more stressful when you don’t know if they’re harmful.

Are silverfish harmful to you or your pets? Let‘s learn more about these pests, and see what you can do to prevent them.

Can Silverfish Harm You?

Are silverfish harmful to humans if we find them in our homes? There’s currently no evidence that suggests silverfish are poisonous or dangerous to humans. They are also not known to carry any disease causing pathogens.

That being said, there are certain situations where the answer to the question are silverfish harmful is yes. Some people can be allergic to silverfish. The presence of silverfish in the home can trigger a reaction. Silverfish shed their skin, leaving behind their scales. This is the dust that people can be allergic to.

Are Silverfish Harmful To Pets?

Silverfish have an alarming appearance. However, if your pet swallows one, they are not poisonous. Having said that, it is suggested that you don’t allow pets to do this. Generally speaking, silverfish cause damage to household items rather than causing harm to your pets. So, are silverfish harmful to pets? The answer is not especially.

What Will Silverfish Damage?

It’s great news that your health and the health of your pets is relatively safe from silverfish. However, they do still pose a risk in your home. Silverfish will damage your household items. They stick to a diet made up of carbs and sugar, so things like clothes, wallpaper and books are all at risk from silverfish damage.

Preventing Silverfish

Nobody wants their belongings chewed on by pests. Here are some tips you can use to keep silverfish out of your home.

• Take away their food sources – Dry goods like cereals and pet foods should be stored in airtight containers.
• Dehumidify damp rooms – Silverfish love the damp. Removing this moisture will help keep silverfish away.
• Get proper ventilation – If you do have a home prone to damp, make sure it’s properly ventilated. This could be having vents fitted or opening windows and doors.

Getting Rid Of Silverfish

If you are already experiencing a silverfish problem it can be tough to treat them alone. The best thing to do in this situation is call Diamond to consult one of our trained pest controllers. DIY methods aren’t effective against a proper silverfish infestation. Call us on 020 8889 1036 for expert advice.

Having any kind of pest infestation in your home is incredibly stressful. But when it comes to a rented home, it can be confusing as to what to do about it.

Knowing who is responsible for the cost and arrangement of pest control is a problem tenants face every day.

In any kind of pest situation – do landlords pay for pest control?

When Do Landlords Pay For Pest Control?

Ultimately, knowing when landlords pay for pest control comes down to two specific factors. These factors are: whether the pests were present prior to you moving in. And if the infestation has been caused due to disrepair or damage to the property. When you rent a property, a landlord has an obligation to deliver the home in a state that is inhabitable. This means that it must be clean, in good working order and condition – and free from any pests.

If the property has been left with an active pest infestation, landlords absolutely have to pay to have it treated. So, do landlords pay for pest control in this situation? Yes, they do. To be able to protect yourself from any liability when it comes to prior pest infestations, do a thorough property check before you move in. Take notes and photos of any disrepair that could provide access to pests. If you spot any pests, again, document the evidence. Then notify your landlord or letting agent immediately.

When Do Tenants Pay For Pest Control?

Being a tenant means you have to ensure the property is kept clean and not cause any damage. There will always be wear and tear to any property. And this should be something your landlord expects. However, when a tenant allows a property to fall into disrepair, or improperly disposes of rubbish, pest control costs fall onto them.

Do landlords pay for pest control problems caused by tenants? No, they don’t. In this situation, you should always seek the help of an expert pest controller yourself to come and treat the infestation. Just remember that you will be liable for any costs.

Council Pest Control

Whoever’s responsibility it is to carry out pest control, it’s important to know when the council will step in. Regardless of who’s fault it is that the infestation has occurred, the council is under no obligation to treat the problem. This is true even if you are in receipt of benefits. The council might step, but only in if your landlord has not treated an infestation that they are liable for.

Pigeons are an integral part of London, and indeed, British life and culture. Most people just consider them to be a nuisance because they raid bins. They scavenge for food scraps, whether its bread, or chips thrown to them by tourists or locals. They also poo everywhere, which gives everything an unsightly sticky white look and feel. However, this means more than this just creating a lot of work involved in clearing it up.

There are several pigeon droppings health and safety risks too.

To help keep you more informed, we are going to look at some of these in the following post.

Bird Droppings Can Carry Serious Diseases

No-one would think of poo as particularly sanitary. Especially when it comes from a wild bird. Therefore, the concept that there are pigeon droppings health and safety risks should be easy enough to grasp. However, you may not realise just how dangerous bird droppings are.

Without wishing to put you off ever leaving the house, it does help to know the risks. Then you can protect yourself against exposure. Bird droppings can carry the following diseases:

• Psittacosis – this can lead to complications including inflammation of the heart or brain. It can be treated with antibiotics.
• Histoplasmosis – commonly, this infection is contracted when the spores of a fungus are airborne and breathed in when dry bird droppings are disturbed
• Extrinsic allergic alveolitis – a lung disease that caused when you are exposed to excessive levels of airborne avian antigens that cause hypersensitivity.
• Salmonellosis – related to Salmonella, this can cause various symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever and diarrhoea.
• Campylobacter – people more commonly contract this infection by drinking and eating produce that contains these bacteria. However, it can infect people who come into close contact with animals (such as pigeons) who are also infected. It can attack the large and small intestines lining.

Insects and Pigeon Droppings Health and Safety

As well as the above diseases, pigeon droppings health and safety risks also include the fact it can attract various unpleasant bugs and insects. Such as:

• Common bird mite
• Cheese mite
• Blowflies
• Lesser house fly
• White shouldered house moth
• Brown house moth
• Case-bearing clothes moth
• Spider Beetles
• Biscuit Beetle
• Varied Carpet Beetle

So, rather than seeing pigeon droppings as merely just a messy nuisance, it’s wise to remember the above and protect yourself, your family – or business and employees – from infections and infestations caused by them.

There are many animals we readily perceive as being pests. Rats, wasps, cockroaches and ants are all easily accepted as pests. Some cause damage your property, some steal food and some sting. Some also carry and spread nasty bacterial infections and diseases.

Even though squirrels are a wild animal, they are not often considered to be pests.

In fact, most people think that until they suffer a visit to their home from a squirrel. All the things we love about squirrels when they are out in the wild turn into our worst nightmare. Their usually adorable traits make them a real pest when they infiltrate our homes and gardens. If you remain unconvinced, check out some of the damage they can cause below. And after each point, ask yourself this: are squirrels pests?

Getting Into Your Loft

Squirrels are well-known for their flexibility and acrobatic skills. They are excellent at scaling steep surfaces. They nimbly run across cables and beams, and even take perilously huge leaps. These skills are all well and good – until they use them to break into your home. Houses are like the Holy Grail to a squirrel looking for something to eat and drink. Plus somewhere to find shelter and set up a nest.

Therefore, if they come across even the smallest of opening in your property – even if it is impossibly high, in the roof, for instance – they will use their skills like a cat burglar. Peeling siding, shingles, uncapped chimneys and damaged vents are some of the other ways they can gain access. What if the opening isn’t big enough? Not a problem, they’ll chew and make it bigger.

Nest Building

Why are squirrels pests during the nesting season? Well, it is when they are making nests that squirrels are particularly damaging. They will take just about anything they can find in your loft or other parts of your property for nest materials. They will literally break things and rip apart your home and belongings to make their nests. This includes fabrics, linens, paper products, insulation and structural components. The more their comfy nests expand and grow, the more your dwelling will deteriorate.

They Chew Through Cables

As squirrels are from the rodent family, their teeth continue to grow. Because of this, they need to keep gnawing and chewing on things to help keep their teeth at manageable lengths.

That’s fine when they are in the wild. But when they are in your home, they will chew at just about anything. That includes, unfortunately, cables and wires. This will of course cause immediate damage to the wires and cables. In addition – depending where the squirrels are – this damage could potentially cause electrical fires. Or, at the very least, annoying disruptions.

So…Are Squirrels Loft Pests?

With the above in mind, we’re sure you’re no longer surprised that the answer to the question “are squirrels pests?“ is yes, they are. We know exactly how to deal with the problem of squirrels here at Diamond. Give us a call on 020 8889 1036 for a quote.

Do you ever find fruit flies in your home and wonder if they came from nowhere? Perhaps you are under the impression they simply materialised by magic from inside rotting fruit? You’re not alone in thinking those things. Due to a persistent old wives’ tale, that’s what many people have historically believed.

Of course, there is no evidence to support the theory that fruit flies are the result of some kind of spontaneous generation.

So, you might wonder, exactly what causes fruit flies in the house?

What Causes Fruit Flies?

Fruit flies have incredible olfactory systems. They can sniff out rotting fruit from some miles away. Rather than coming from inside the fruit to the outside world, they come into the house as your fruit starts to age past the ripe stage. Now, don’t worry, that doesn’t mean that gone off fruit in your fridge will attract them. Their sense of smell isn’t that good!

Basically, any past-its-best fruit – or veg for that matter – you have on your worktops in the kitchen are all the invitation fruit flies need.

When Doors and Windows are Closed

But what about if you’re sitting indoors, thinking you are protected? Your windows and doors were closed and you still managed to get fruit flies. What causes fruit flies in that situation? Well, as you’ve probably noticed, fruit flies are not particularly big. It’s one of the many qualities that makes them so annoying. This is also how they gain access to your home. Even when you’ve been careful to keep your doors and windows closed.

They can fly in through the smallest of gaps and holes in your building. Window screens are also generally no match for fruit flies.

Fruit Flies Go Mad for Rotting Fruit

Fruit doesn’t have to go too overripe before it starts attracting fruit flies. As the fruit ferments and produces alcohol, fruit flies catch the scent and seek it out. Once they find it, they start eating it. And while doing so, they lay many hundreds of eggs at a time. These hatch into new larvae within hours.

You’ll have seen this in action if you have ever gone away for a few days leaving a full fruit bowl in your kitchen. No doubt you have come home to a fruit fly infestation.

It’s not just the fruit or veg you already have in your home that naturally goes off and attracts them. If the fruit you pick up from the supermarket has already began rotting at the shop, it may already have fruit flies.