Pest Emergency? What to Do First — and How Fast We Can Come

When pests show up all at once, the right first move depends on what you're dealing with. Here's what to do for the three most common 'right now' problems — and a straight answer on how fast we respond.

How fast can we actually come out?

Same-week service is typical, and urgent problems often get seen sooner. Because ExterMetro is owner-operated, there's no dispatcher or route sheet in the way — the owner runs his own schedule and prioritizes urgent calls. In the busiest stretches (spring swarm and summer ant season) it may be a few days, and we'll give you a realistic window up front. The fastest way to start: call or text a photo to (626) 409-1584.

Sudden roach outbreak — what to do first

Don't reach for a fogger or bug bomb — they scatter roaches deeper into walls and make it worse. Instead: clear food and crumbs, fix any standing water, wipe down surfaces, and pull cardboard out of the kitchen. Then get targeted gel baiting from a pro — especially for fast-breeding German roaches.

A rat in the attic — what to do first

Noises overhead at dusk usually mean rodents. Trapping alone won't solve it — the fix is finding and sealing the entry points (exclusion), often tied to fruit trees and roof lines. And if you find droppings, don't sweep or vacuum them — that can put particles into the air. Ventilate, keep people and pets out, and see our hantavirus guide.

A termite swarm indoors — what to do first

A cloud of winged insects or piles of shed wings inside usually means an established termite colony. Don't spray the area — you'll erase the evidence while the colony keeps chewing. Collect a few insects or wings in a bag, note where they came from, and book an inspection. (Here's how to read the signs.)

Whatever the pest, the move is the same: don't make it worse, then call. Text a photo and we'll tell you how urgent it really is: (626) 409-1584.