Fumigation treats a whole building at once. Crews drape the house in a tent, then release a gas that seeps into walls, furniture and stored belongings. It is the most intensive bed bug option and is used when the problem has spread through most of a home.
When Tenting Fits
- Bugs are in most rooms, not just the bedrooms.
- Heat or chemical treatment was tried and did not work.
- The house holds too many belongings to treat item by item.
- A small building needs all of its units done together.
How Structural Fumigation Works in California
- SurveyA fumigator sizes up the house and leaves you a prep checklist in writing.
- CoverThe house is sealed under a tent and warning signs are posted.
- FumigateThe gas goes in under a licensed fumigator and stays for the set exposure period.
- ClearanceThe tent comes off, the house airs out and the air is tested.
Fumigation for Orinda Homes
Tenting a house on a sloped Orinda lot takes planning. The crew needs to reach every side of the structure, so ask how they will handle decks, retaining walls and trees close to the house. If there is a guest cottage or pool house, ask whether it will be tented as well. A good quote explains why fumigation is a better fit than heat or chemicals for your home.
How to Prepare
- Move food, medicines and pet food out, or double bag them in the bags the crew supplies.
- Book 2 to 3 nights somewhere else for the family and pets.
- Water the plants along the foundation and cut back branches touching the house.
- Unlock side gates and clear paths, decks and stairs around the house.
Questions About Fumigation
How long are we out of the house?
Plan on 2 to 3 days, until the house has been aired out and air testing clears it.
Does tenting protect the house from future bed bugs?
No. The gas leaves nothing behind, so a new bug carried in next month could start a fresh 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 Orinda. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.