Question 1

What insects can MothKill treat?

Accepted Answer

MothKill specialises in the treatment of clothes moths, carpet beetles and bed bugs. Depending on the property and pest involved, we can also advise on treatment for fleas and other crawling or textile pests.

Question 2

Are you professionally trained?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We use professional pest-control equipment and products and regularly update our knowledge and treatment methods. Different pest-control products and treatment methods have specific legal, safety and label requirements, which must always be followed.

Question 3

Do you offer a guarantee or warranty?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Qualifying complete-property heat treatments include a 6-month warranty, subject to our treatment terms, preparation requirements and the property being suitable for treatment. Where insecticide treatment is provided, the applicable follow-up or warranty period depends on the treatment plan agreed before work begins.

Question 4

Why does the whole property need treating for a heat-treatment warranty?

Accepted Answer

If only one room is treated, bed bugs, moths or other insects may already be present elsewhere in the property and later move back into the treated area. Treating the complete affected property significantly reduces the risk of untreated harbourages remaining and allows us to provide a more meaningful warranty.

Question 5

What areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

MothKill is based in East Anglia and provides specialist pest treatments across a wide area of England, including Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, London and many surrounding areas. For larger heat treatments, we can travel considerably further. Contact us with your postcode and we will confirm availability.

Question 6

Is MothKill insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. MothKill carries appropriate business insurance for the professional pest-control work we undertake.

Question 7

How quickly can you attend?

Accepted Answer

Availability varies depending on location and workload, but we always try to offer appointments as quickly as possible. If the infestation is urgent, let us know when you enquire and we will advise you of the earliest available appointment.

Question 8

Does pest heat treatment work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Professional heat treatment can be extremely effective against insects such as bed bugs, clothes moths and carpet beetles when sufficiently high temperatures are achieved throughout the treatment area. The important factor is not simply how hot the air becomes. Heat must reach the insects, eggs, larvae and harbourages where they are hiding.

Question 9

What pests can be treated with heat?

Accepted Answer

Heat treatment can be used against several insect pests, including bed bugs, clothes moths, carpet beetles, fleas and some other crawling and stored-product insects. The treatment method varies depending on the pest and property.

Question 10

How does heat treatment kill insects?

Accepted Answer

Insects have a limited ability to survive sustained high temperatures. When their body temperature reaches a lethal level for sufficient time, essential biological processes begin to fail. Professional heat treatment therefore relies on achieving and maintaining suitable temperatures throughout the areas where insects may be hiding.

Question 11

Does heat treatment kill insect eggs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. One of the major advantages of professional heat treatment is that sufficiently high temperatures can kill insects at several life stages, including eggs. This is particularly useful for bed bugs and textile pests because eggs can sometimes be harder to control with surface-applied treatments.

Question 12

Why is professional heat treatment more expensive?

Accepted Answer

Professional heat treatment requires powerful specialist heaters, ducting, industrial fans, temperature sensors, fuel and substantial time on site. The equipment must be transported, unloaded, installed, monitored throughout treatment and then removed again. The objective is controlled heat distribution rather than simply putting a heater into a room.

Question 13

How much does heat treatment cost?

Accepted Answer

The price depends on the pest, property size, number of rooms, location, access and complexity of the treatment. Contact MothKill with your postcode, property type and the rooms affected and we can provide an appropriate quotation.

Question 14

How long does heat treatment take?

Accepted Answer

Most treatments take several hours. The exact time depends on the size and contents of the property and how quickly the required temperatures are achieved throughout the treatment area. Temperature readings are more important than simply treating for a fixed number of hours.

Question 15

Will heat treatment damage my belongings?

Accepted Answer

Most normal household items tolerate professional heat treatment well, but some belongings are heat-sensitive and should be removed or protected. Examples include certain plastics, aerosols, medicines, wax products, cosmetics, delicate artwork, some electronics, vinyl records, laminated furniture and other items that may distort, soften or deteriorate when heated.

Question 16

Can heat treatment damage wallpaper?

Accepted Answer

It can. Elevated temperatures may soften some wallpaper adhesives, particularly where wallpaper is old, already lifting or poorly applied. This can occasionally cause bubbling, curling or lifting at the edges.

Question 17

Can heat treatment damage paintwork?

Accepted Answer

Good-quality paintwork normally tolerates treatment, but old, loose or poorly applied paint can occasionally bubble, crack or peel when exposed to prolonged heat.

Question 18

Are UPVC windows and doors safe during heat treatment?

Accepted Answer

UPVC and associated components can be sensitive to excessive heat. Their response depends on the material, age, existing condition and proximity to the hot airflow. We monitor temperatures and take precautions around vulnerable windows, doors and fittings.

Question 19

Can heat treatment damage laminated furniture?

Accepted Answer

It can. Some laminated and MDF furniture depends on heat-sensitive adhesives. Prolonged high temperatures can occasionally cause laminate or edging to lift or separate. Vulnerable furniture may need to be removed or protected before treatment.

Question 20

Can heat treatment affect plastic items?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some plastics can soften, distort or warp at elevated temperatures. Plastic blinds, curtain rails, lightweight mouldings and similar heat-sensitive items should normally be removed where practical.

Question 21

Can heat treatment cause a fire?

Accepted Answer

Our indirect diesel heater remains outside the property. Combustion gases are exhausted outside while clean heated air is ducted into the treatment area. There is no naked flame inside the property. However, heat treatment still involves high temperatures, which is why customers must follow the preparation instructions and remove potentially hazardous or heat-sensitive items.

Question 22

Are there diesel fumes inside the property?

Accepted Answer

No. Our indirect diesel heaters remain outside. Combustion gases are exhausted outdoors and clean heated air is ducted inside through suitable openings.

Question 23

Can I stay in the property during heat treatment?

Accepted Answer

People and pets should leave the heated treatment area while treatment is taking place. Temperatures become uncomfortable and surfaces, ducting and equipment can become very hot. If insecticides are also being applied, additional exclusion requirements may apply.

Question 24

Is heat treatment a major upheaval?

Accepted Answer

There is some preparation involved, but the actual treatment is relatively non-invasive. Our heating equipment remains outside and heated air is ducted into the property. The biggest factor is making sure rooms are correctly prepared so air can circulate and reach potential pest harbourages.

Question 25

Is my property suitable for heat treatment?

Accepted Answer

Most houses can be assessed for heat treatment, but suitable access is essential. We normally need parking and a safe external position for the heater. Flats and upper-floor properties need to be assessed individually because the equipment stays outside and heated air must be safely ducted into the treatment area.

Question 26

What items should be removed before heat treatment?

Accepted Answer

Items that may need to be removed or protected include aerosols and pressurised containers, lighters and flammable products, medicines, cosmetics and perfumes, candles and wax products, plants and pets, vinyl records and photographic film, delicate artwork and antiques, some electronics, heat-sensitive plastics, plastic blinds and curtain rails, some laminated or glued furniture, musical instruments and food or drink that could be damaged by heat. We provide a preparation guide before treatment.

Question 27

How should I prepare rooms for heat treatment?

Accepted Answer

Rooms should be decluttered and accessible so heated air can move around beds, furniture, carpets, skirting boards and other potential harbourages. Beds should be stripped, cupboards and wardrobes made accessible and heat-sensitive items removed or protected according to our preparation instructions. Do not move potentially infested belongings into untreated rooms, as this can spread the infestation.

Question 28

Can heat treatment fail?

Accepted Answer

Yes. No responsible pest treatment should be described as incapable of failure. Problems can occur when rooms are poorly prepared, belongings are packed too tightly, clutter creates insulated areas, temperatures are not distributed correctly or pests are present in untreated parts of the property. Correct preparation and careful temperature monitoring greatly improve treatment success.

Question 29

What happens if pests are still present after heat treatment?

Accepted Answer

If you believe pest activity remains after treatment, contact us so we can assess what you are seeing. Qualifying complete-property heat treatments are backed by our 6-month warranty, subject to the agreed terms and preparation requirements.

Question 30

Why choose DIY heat treatment?

Accepted Answer

The main advantage is cost. Hiring professional heat-treatment equipment lets you carry out much of the treatment yourself while avoiding the full labour cost of a technician carrying out the entire treatment.

Question 31

Why hire heat-treatment equipment from MothKill?

Accepted Answer

MothKill specialises in insect heat treatment. We provide far more than just a heater. Our packages can include powerful indirect heaters, industrial fans, temperature-monitoring equipment, ducting, fuel, setup assistance and one-to-one instruction.

Question 32

What if I have never used the equipment before?

Accepted Answer

You do not need to be an experienced pest controller. We explain how the equipment works and help you with the initial setup. You must, however, be comfortable following the preparation, temperature-monitoring and safety instructions we provide.

Question 33

What is included in DIY heat-treatment hire?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the package, we provide the equipment needed for treatment, including heaters, fans, ducting and temperature-monitoring equipment. We also provide one-to-one instruction, setup assistance and guidance on how to monitor the treatment.

Question 34

What temperature does the room reach?

Accepted Answer

Room air temperatures commonly reach approximately 50–60°C or more in selected areas. However, the temperature of the furniture, mattresses and other harbourages is more important than the temperature of the air beside the heater.

Question 35

How long does DIY heat treatment take?

Accepted Answer

As a general guide, we normally allow around six hours, although smaller rooms may reach the required temperatures sooner and larger or heavily furnished areas may take longer. Always use temperature readings rather than time alone to judge the progress of treatment.

Question 36

Do I need to prepare the room before DIY heat treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Preparation is essential. Clutter should be reduced, furniture made accessible and heat-sensitive items removed or protected. Incorrect preparation can prevent heat reaching insects hidden inside belongings or furniture.

Question 37

Do all my clothes and bedding need to be washed?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Items that can safely tolerate heat may sometimes remain within the treatment when correctly arranged. Where appropriate, tumble drying suitable clothing and bedding at a high temperature can also help kill bed bugs. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

Question 38

Are there fumes with DIY heat treatment?

Accepted Answer

The diesel heaters remain outside the property. Combustion gases are exhausted outside while clean heated air is ducted into the treatment area.

Question 39

Is DIY heat treatment safe?

Accepted Answer

Heat treatment involves high temperatures and powerful equipment, so the instructions provided must be followed carefully. People and pets should not remain in the treatment area, and heat-sensitive or hazardous belongings must be removed beforehand.

Question 40

Can you treat flats with hired heaters?

Accepted Answer

Ground-floor flats with suitable external access may be suitable. Other flats need to be assessed individually because the heaters remain outside and heated air must be safely ducted into the property.

Question 41

Is there a deposit for equipment hire?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A refundable £250 equipment deposit per diesel heater is required, subject to the equipment being returned in the agreed condition.

Question 42

When is payment due for equipment hire?

Accepted Answer

The hire charge and equipment deposit must be paid in full before the hire begins.

Question 43

Do you deliver and collect the equipment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Delivery and collection are included within the applicable service area and agreed hire package.

Question 44

What identification do I need?

Accepted Answer

We require identification linked to the delivery address. This may include a driving licence or passport together with suitable proof of address such as a utility bill.

Question 45

Are professional insecticides harmful?

Accepted Answer

Professional insecticides must be used carefully and strictly according to the approved product label. During application, sprays and airborne droplets may cause irritation or unnecessary exposure, so people and pets normally need to leave the treatment area for the period specified by the product instructions and technician. Once treated surfaces have dried and any required re-entry period has passed, customers should follow the aftercare instructions provided.

Question 46

Do professional insecticides stain carpets or furniture?

Accepted Answer

Many modern professional pest-control products are designed for use on suitable household surfaces, but no product should automatically be assumed to be completely stain-free on every material. Delicate, valuable or unusual fabrics and surfaces should be discussed before treatment, and spot testing may be appropriate where necessary.

Question 47

What insecticides does MothKill use?

Accepted Answer

We use professional pest-control products selected according to the pest, property and treatment requirements. Different active ingredients and formulations may be used depending on the infestation. We do not rely on one product for every pest or situation.

Question 48

Are professional insecticides simply stronger than DIY products?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Professional products differ from DIY products in formulation, active ingredients, permitted uses, application methods and label instructions. Successful treatment depends on correct pest identification, product selection and application rather than simply choosing the product with the highest concentration of an active ingredient.

Question 49

How are insecticides applied?

Accepted Answer

The method depends on the pest and product being used. Treatments may include targeted residual sprays, dusts or other professional application methods. We select the method that is appropriate for the infestation rather than automatically fogging the entire property.

Question 50

Are insecticides environmentally friendly?

Accepted Answer

Insecticides are designed to kill or control living organisms, so they should always be used responsibly. We follow the product label and use treatments only where appropriate, taking care to minimise unnecessary exposure to people, pets and non-target organisms.

Question 51

I have a baby or young children. Can insecticide treatment still be carried out?

Accepted Answer

Possibly, but we need to understand the property and treatment required first. Children, babies and pets should not be present during application and must follow the specified re-entry period. Toys, bedding and other personal items may need to be removed or protected before treatment. Where appropriate, heat treatment can provide an alternative that reduces reliance on insecticides.

Question 52

I have asthma, allergies or breathing problems. Is insecticide treatment suitable?

Accepted Answer

If you have asthma, allergies, a respiratory condition or another medical concern, tell us before treatment. We can explain which treatment method and product are being considered, but medical advice about your individual health should come from your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional.

Question 53

Do clothes moths cause damage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Clothes moth infestations can cause serious damage to natural-fibre carpets, clothing, rugs, upholstery and other textiles. Damage can become expensive when an infestation is left untreated, particularly where wool carpets, valuable clothing or furnishings are involved.

Question 54

Do adult clothes moths eat clothes and carpets?

Accepted Answer

No. The larvae are responsible for the damage. After hatching, clothes moth larvae feed on suitable natural fibres such as wool, fur, feathers and other materials containing animal-based proteins.

Question 55

What happens if I ignore a clothes moth infestation?

Accepted Answer

The infestation can continue to develop as adults reproduce and larvae continue feeding. Because larvae often remain hidden in dark, undisturbed locations, considerable damage can occur before the extent of the infestation becomes obvious.

Question 56

Will carpet cleaning get rid of clothes moths?

Accepted Answer

Carpet cleaning can help by removing dirt, debris and some insects or larvae, but it should not normally be relied upon as the sole treatment for an established infestation. Larvae and eggs may remain under furniture, around carpet edges, beneath skirting boards and in other inaccessible areas.

Question 57

Are clothes moths active all year?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Clothes moths can remain active indoors throughout the year because heated properties provide suitable conditions. You may notice fewer adult moths during colder periods, but larvae can still continue feeding within carpets and textiles.

Question 58

What preparation is needed before clothes moth treatment?

Accepted Answer

Preparation depends on whether you are having heat treatment, insecticide treatment or a combination approach. Generally, rooms should be decluttered and thoroughly vacuumed, with particular attention paid to carpet edges, underneath furniture and other undisturbed areas. Clothing and textiles may need to be inspected, isolated or treated according to the preparation instructions provided.

Question 59

How should I treat clothes affected by clothes moths?

Accepted Answer

The appropriate method depends on the fabric. Suitable items may be washed or tumble dried according to their care labels. Delicate items may require dry cleaning. Freezing can also be useful for some small textiles when carried out at sufficiently low temperatures for long enough. Keep treated and untreated belongings separated so that insects are not accidentally reintroduced.

Question 60

How long does clothes moth treatment take?

Accepted Answer

Heat treatment can take several hours or most of a day depending on the size of the property. Insecticide treatments usually take less time on site but may require follow-up visits because moth eggs, larvae and hidden activity can persist.

Question 61

Is heat treatment effective against clothes moths?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Professional heat treatment can kill clothes moths at different stages of their life cycle when sufficient temperatures reach the insects and affected materials. It is particularly useful where larvae and eggs are hidden within carpets, furniture and other difficult-to-access areas.

Question 62

Why are bed bugs so difficult to kill?

Accepted Answer

Bed bugs are exceptionally good at hiding. Their flat bodies allow them to shelter in mattress seams, bed frames, furniture joints, skirting boards and tiny cracks and crevices. They can also survive for long periods without feeding, and some populations have developed resistance to commonly used insecticides.

Question 63

Are bed bugs a health risk?

Accepted Answer

Bed bugs are not known to transmit disease to people. However, their bites can cause itching and irritation, and infestations can result in disturbed sleep and considerable distress. Individual reactions vary, and some people may show little or no visible reaction to bites.

Question 64

Does having bed bugs mean my home is dirty?

Accepted Answer

No. Bed bugs are not attracted to dirt. They infest clean and untidy properties alike because they are looking for a blood meal. However, reducing clutter makes bed bugs easier to detect and gives them fewer places to hide.

Frequently Asked Questions