Fumigation handles an entire building in one treatment. A tent is placed over the house or cottage and filled with a gas that works through walls, furniture and stored belongings. It is the heaviest bed bug option and is kept for infestations that have spread through the whole structure.
When Tenting Makes Sense
- Bugs are showing up in most rooms and furniture, not just one bed.
- Heat or chemical treatment was tried and failed.
- The house is full of stored or inherited items that would be slow to treat one by one.
- A cottage and the main house both need clearing together.
How Structural Fumigation Works in California
- EvaluateA fumigator looks over the building and hands you a written prep list.
- SealThe structure is covered with a tent and warning signs go up.
- FumigateGas is released and held at the level the label and state rules set.
- ClearThe tent comes off, the building airs out and readings confirm it is safe.
Tenting in Bodega
Bodega houses range from village lots near the church to ranch homes surrounded by pasture, fences and outbuildings. The fumigator needs clear access on every side to drape and seal the tent, so bring up trees, porches, attached sheds and animals during the estimate. Ask the fumigator to put in writing why a tent suits your house better than heat or chemicals.
How to Prepare
- Seal food, medicines and pet food in approved bags, or remove them.
- Book 2 to 3 nights away for everyone, pets included, and cancel any guest stays.
- Water plants near the walls and trim limbs touching the roof.
- Unlock gates, sheds and outbuildings so the crew can reach every side.
Questions About Fumigation
How long is the house off limits during tenting?
Plan for 2 to 3 days away while the house is tented, aired out and cleared by air testing before anyone returns.
Will bed bugs stay gone after fumigation?
Not necessarily. The gas leaves no residue, so a guest's suitcase or a used couch can start a new problem. Many companies follow up with a residual treatment.
How your call is handled: Bed Bug Control CA is a free referral service. When you call or send the form, you are connected with an independent, licensed pest control company that serves Bodega. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.