One of the significant discomforts resulting from fleas is the itching that their bites cause. In most cases, the red marks and itchiness will disappear without causing any long-term effect on your health. Fleas are recognised parasite and disease vectors, and in more sensitive people or pets, they can cause allergic reactions.

One of the main signs that your bed or bedding is infested with fleas is the sight of tiny black specks. These are sometimes called "flea dirt." These are the excrement of fleas; if you sprinkle the particles with a drop of water, they will turn dark-reddish brown in colour. 

Travel is a widely recognised cause of bed bug infestations. Quite often, unbeknown to travellers, bed bugs can infest their luggage or clothing and then be transported back to other properties.

The most common treatment pest controllers tend to use is a residual insecticide; this is applied either as a powder or liquid spray. It is applied to all floored surfaces. 

There are many different ways to prevent bed bugs from entering your home; for example: always check any used clothing or furniture before bringing them into your home. Wash bedding at 60 degrees and use a protective cover on your mattress. 

Signs that you have mice or rats in your home are the signs of fresh droppings. You might find gnaw marks on packets and fabrics etc., there will be a foul odour, or a pet might become fixated where the rats or mice have been. You might also find evidence of nest making by the rodents.

Two main things that can attract rats and mice to your home are shelter and food. If you leave waste food on surfaces and floors, rodents will be drawn. Mice and rats also need to find shelter, especially during the cold winter months. 

The most effective and quickest way to rid of rats from your home is to hire a professional. Checking for any access points and sealing them will help to deter rats from making your home theirs. 

Like human beings, all pests require three elements for survival, food, water and shelter. If you remove any traces of waste food and make sure they cannot gain access to a water source I. e, a pet water bowl left out overnight; you will likely starve them out and dry them out. Block any points of access so they cannot gain entry.

You do not need to remove a wasp nest once treated; this is because wasps will not use another colonies nest. 

Removing a wasp nest with a live colony is dangerous and should only be done by a professional. Wasps that feel threatened will become aggressive.

There are different types of bird proofing, depending on the breed of bird you are dealing with and what you are trying to bird-proof. These are netting and spiking. It is always best to ask a professional if you are unsure.

Birds can cause many problems. These include fouling, physical damage, the spread of diseases, the spread of insects and parasites, blocked drainage systems and water damage, consumption of stored food, and aggressive behaviour. Birds can also destroy crops.