Frequently Asked Questions

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General Pest Control

How much does pest control cost in Phoenix?

Pricing depends on the size of your property, the type of pest issue, and the service frequency you choose. We provide a clear quote after your free inspection with no hidden fees and no surprise charges. Most residential plans are affordable on a monthly or bi-monthly basis. Ongoing plans reduce per-visit costs compared to one-time treatments.

Is pest control treatment safe for pets and children?

Yes. We use EPA-registered products applied at labeled rates in targeted locations, inside cracks, crevices, along baseboards, and in bait stations rather than broadcast across surfaces. Once treated surfaces are dry (typically 30 to 60 minutes), they are safe for normal contact. If you have fish tanks, reptile enclosures, or specific respiratory conditions, let your technician know so we can take extra precautions.

Are your treatments safe for seniors with health sensitivities?

We select products and application methods with resident health in mind. Gel baits, granular baits, and targeted crack-and-crevice treatments minimize airborne exposure. We avoid broadcast spraying inside homes and use low-volatility formulations where effective. If you have specific health concerns, let us know before service and we will adjust the plan accordingly.

What is Integrated Pest Management?

Integrated Pest Management, or IPM, is an approach that combines inspection, identification, targeted treatment, monitoring, and prevention to manage pests effectively with minimal environmental impact. Instead of relying solely on chemical treatment, IPM uses multiple strategies to address the root causes of pest problems and deliver lasting results.

Do you offer organic or green pest control products?

We offer reduced-risk and green product options for customers who prefer them. These products are effective for many common pest situations and are a good fit for homes with organic gardens, sensitive individuals, or environmental preferences. Your technician can discuss which options are appropriate for your specific pest issue.

What products do you use?

Uni-Tech Pest Control uses professional-grade products that are not available over the counter. All products are EPA-registered and applied according to label directions. Professional formulations are more concentrated, more targeted, and designed for resistance management. Your technician can answer specific product questions during any visit.

What pests are covered under general pest control?

General pest control covers scorpions, ants, cockroaches, spiders, crickets, earwigs, silverfish, centipedes, millipedes, and beetles, the common household pests found in Phoenix-area homes. Pests that require specialized treatment methods, including termites, rodents, bed bugs, bees, and gophers, are handled through separate services.

How do I schedule pest control service?

Call us at 602-962-8935 or fill out the contact form on our website. We typically schedule new customers within a few business days, and same-week appointments are often available. Emergency situations such as scorpion stings, bee swarms, or large rodent infestations receive priority scheduling.

Is the initial inspection really free?

Yes. Every new customer receives a free property inspection where a licensed technician identifies pest activity, entry points, and risk factors specific to your home and neighborhood.

What happens during the first visit?

Your first visit includes a full property inspection by a licensed technician. We identify current pest activity, entry points, and conditions that attract pests. Based on the inspection findings, we recommend a treatment plan and can typically begin treatment the same day. The initial visit usually takes 45 minutes to an hour.

How long does each recurring visit take?

A standard recurring service visit takes approximately 30 minutes. Your technician treats the exterior perimeter, eaves, and entry points, then addresses any interior areas where pest activity has been found.

Do you treat the inside of my home or just the outside?

Both. The exterior perimeter treatment is the primary line of defense, and we treat interior areas where pest activity is found or likely. Many homes only need interior treatment during the first few visits. Once the exterior barrier is established and maintained, interior pest sightings typically drop significantly.

Do I need to be home during service?

Not for exterior-only visits. Your technician can treat the full exterior perimeter without anyone being home. If interior treatment is needed, we schedule the visit when someone can provide access. Many customers leave a garage code or side gate unlocked for recurring visits.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for treatment?

Minimal preparation is needed. Clear items away from exterior walls where possible and make sure gates are accessible. For interior treatment, clearing items from under sinks and away from baseboards in problem areas helps your technician apply product more effectively. We will provide specific instructions when we schedule your visit.

What if I see pests between scheduled visits?

Call 602-962-8935 and we will schedule a re-treatment at no additional charge. The free re-service guarantee covers any breakthrough pest activity between your regular appointments. It is normal to see some pest activity in the first few weeks after starting service as the barrier takes time to fully establish.

Do I need to leave my home during treatment?

For most exterior-focused treatments, you do not need to leave. If interior application is needed, we will advise you on any brief re-entry waiting periods. Your technician will walk you through everything before treatment begins.

Can I cancel service at any time?

Yes. Uni-Tech Pest Control does not require long-term contracts. You can adjust your service frequency or cancel at any time without penalties. We believe our results should be the reason you stay with us.

When is pest season in Phoenix?

Phoenix has pest activity year-round, but pressure peaks in two periods. Spring through early summer (March through June) brings increased scorpion, ant, and termite activity as temperatures climb. Monsoon season (July through September) triggers cockroach and cricket surges as moisture floods the area. Winter provides some relief, but bark scorpions remain active indoors even in cooler months.

How does monsoon season affect pests?

Monsoon storms bring sudden moisture and humidity to an otherwise dry environment. This triggers hatches of cockroaches, crickets, and beetles, and drives pests indoors as standing water floods their outdoor harborage. American cockroaches come up through sewer systems. Crickets swarm toward exterior lighting. Ant colonies relocate into structures to escape saturated soil. Termite colonies may swarm. Properties with active pest control service in place before monsoon season starts see significantly less indoor breakthrough.

Do new construction homes need pest control?

Yes. New construction often sits on land that was previously undeveloped desert or irrigated farmland, prime scorpion, termite, and ant habitat. Grading and building disturbs the existing population but does not eliminate it. Bark scorpions survive construction activity and emerge inside completed homes through weep holes, plumbing penetrations, and expansion joints. Fresh landscaping with drip irrigation also attracts ants and grubs quickly. The first year in a new home is often when pest pressure is highest.

How long before I see results from treatment?

Most customers see a significant reduction in pest activity within the first one to two treatments. Some pests, like established ant colonies or heavy scorpion populations, may take several treatment cycles to bring under full control. Your technician will set expectations during the initial inspection based on what they find.

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Scorpions

How often should I have my home treated for scorpions?

For most Phoenix-area homes, monthly service during peak season and bi-monthly service during cooler months provides the best protection. Properties adjacent to desert open space or with known heavy scorpion activity benefit from year-round monthly treatment. Scorpion pressure from the surrounding desert is constant, and regular treatments maintain the chemical barrier.

How long does professional scorpion treatment take to work?

Most homeowners notice a significant reduction in scorpion activity within two to three treatments. Barrier products begin working immediately, but it takes time to suppress the broader population around your property. Consistent service is key to long-term results.

Can scorpions climb walls and get into my bed?

Yes. Arizona bark scorpions are skilled climbers and can scale textured stucco, block walls, tree trunks, and even ceilings. They frequently enter homes through gaps along the roofline, soffits, and eave vents. They are commonly found in bedding, shoes, and clothing left on the floor. Professional treatment reduces the population around and inside your home, significantly lowering the chance of encounters.

Are bark scorpion stings dangerous?

Bark scorpion stings are the most medically significant of any scorpion in the United States. While healthy adults typically experience severe pain and localized symptoms, children and elderly individuals can develop serious reactions including difficulty breathing, muscle spasms, and elevated heart rate. Seek medical attention if stung, especially for children under six.

Are baby scorpions more venomous than adults?

No. Baby scorpions carry the same type of venom as adults of their species. However, they are harder to see, which increases the chance of an accidental sting. A baby bark scorpion’s sting is just as medically significant as an adult’s.

How do I tell a bark scorpion from other Phoenix scorpions?

Look at the tail posture and body shape. Bark scorpions rest with their tails curled flat to one side rather than arched over their backs. They have slender bodies and thin pincers compared to the stockier build of stripe-tailed or yellow ground scorpions. If you see a scorpion climbing a wall or ceiling, it is almost certainly a bark scorpion.

Do scorpions travel in pairs or groups?

Most scorpion species are solitary. The notable exception is the Arizona bark scorpion, which aggregates in groups during cooler months. Finding one bark scorpion in your home often means others are nearby, sheltering in the same wall void or storage area.

What is the best caulk to seal scorpions out?

Use an elastomeric or silicone-based exterior caulk that remains flexible in extreme heat. Standard latex caulk tends to crack and shrink in the Arizona sun, which reopens gaps over time. Look for products rated for temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

How do I check my home for scorpion entry points?

Conduct an inspection at night using a UV blacklight flashlight. Walk the exterior perimeter and look for scorpions on walls, near door frames, and around utility penetrations. Any spot where you see scorpions congregating likely has an entry point nearby. During the day, look for daylight visible through door sweeps, window frames, and garage seals from inside the house.

Will scorpion treatment also help with other pests?

Absolutely. Because our approach includes prey pest reduction and broad perimeter treatment, you will also see a decrease in crickets, roaches, spiders, and other common Phoenix pests. Reducing the food supply is one of the most effective long-term scorpion strategies.

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Termites

How do I know if I have termites?

Common signs include mud tubes on foundation walls or in the garage, hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings near windows or doors (evidence of a swarm), and buckling or bubbling paint on wood surfaces. However, termites often cause significant damage before any visible signs appear, which is why regular professional inspections are critical.

Can I have termites without seeing any signs?

Yes. Subterranean termites often feed inside walls, under flooring, and within structural members that are not visible during normal daily activity. Infestations can persist for years before producing visible evidence. This is why periodic professional inspections are valuable, especially for slab-on-grade homes in the Phoenix area.

Which termite treatment is best for Phoenix homes?

There is no single best treatment. It depends on the termite species, the construction type, and the extent of infestation. Subterranean termites are typically treated with liquid barriers or bait systems, while drywood termites require localized injection or fumigation. A professional inspection is the only reliable way to determine the right approach for your home.

How long does a termite treatment last?

Modern liquid termiticide barriers can remain effective for five to ten years in Arizona soil conditions. Monitoring stations provide ongoing detection indefinitely with regular service visits. Factors that reduce longevity include heavy irrigation near the foundation, soil disturbance from landscaping projects, and the specific product used. Annual inspections help verify the barrier is still performing.

Is termite damage covered by homeowners insurance?

In most cases, no. Standard homeowners insurance policies in Arizona do not cover termite damage because it is considered a preventable maintenance issue. This makes proactive treatment and regular inspections even more important, the cost of prevention is significantly less than the cost of structural repairs.

When do termites swarm in Phoenix?

Desert subterranean termites commonly swarm after monsoon rains, typically from July through September. However, swarms can occur at other times following heavy irrigation or unusual rainfall. Drywood termite swarms tend to occur during warm, calm evenings in late summer and early fall.

Do termites go dormant during Phoenix winters?

No. Phoenix winter soil temperatures remain warm enough for termites to forage and feed year-round. Colony activity may slow slightly during the coolest weeks, but termites do not enter dormancy in the Valley.

How much damage can termites do in one year?

A single subterranean termite colony can consume roughly 15 pounds of wood per year. Phoenix properties frequently host multiple colonies simultaneously, and damage accumulates over time. The National Pest Management Association estimates termites cause over five billion dollars in property damage across the United States annually, and Arizona is one of the highest-risk states.

Do termites eat concrete or drywall?

Termites cannot consume concrete, but they can travel through cracks in concrete as narrow as 1/32 of an inch. They do not eat drywall paper as a primary food source, but they will tunnel through it to reach wood framing behind it. Damaged drywall is a sign that termites have already passed through on their way to structural wood.

What is the difference between termite damage and water damage?

Both cause wood to become soft, discolored, and structurally compromised. Termite-damaged wood contains soil in the galleries (from mud tube construction), has a layered or honeycombed internal pattern, and may have live termites or mud present. Water-damaged wood tends to show staining, fungal growth, and a uniform softness without soil or insect evidence inside.

Are subterranean termites in Phoenix different from other states?

Yes. The dominant species is the desert subterranean termite (Heterotermes aureus), adapted to arid conditions and able to forage in drier soil than eastern subterranean termites. Desert subterranean termites are smaller but form large colonies and are aggressive feeders. Treatment strategies effective in other regions may need adjustment for Arizona conditions.

Is termite fumigation safe?

Fumigation with sulfuryl fluoride is safe for the structure itself and leaves no chemical residue on surfaces. The home must be vacated during treatment and properly aerated before re-entry, which the fumigation company manages with clearance testing. All food, medicine, and living things must be removed before the process begins.

Does agricultural soil increase termite risk?

Yes. Land that was irrigated and farmed for decades develops deep moisture profiles and high organic content. Subterranean termite colonies thrive in these conditions and can be well-established long before homes are built. Homes on former farmland should have termite monitoring from day one.

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Ants

How long does it take to get rid of an ant colony?

Most colonies are eliminated within one to three weeks after treatment, depending on the species and colony size. Fire ant colonies respond faster because of their centralized mound structure. Argentine ant supercolonies may take longer due to their multiple queens and extensive networks. Complex situations like carpenter ants nesting inside walls may require follow-up treatments over several weeks.

Why do ants keep coming back after I spray them?

Repellent sprays kill the ants they contact but drive the colony to relocate and bud into new colonies. The queen is never affected, so she continues producing workers. Ants also leave pheromone trails that persist after cleaning. Professional non-repellent treatments and colony-targeted baits address the root cause instead of the symptoms.

Do ants cause structural damage?

Carpenter ants can cause significant structural damage over time by excavating wood for nesting, particularly wood softened by moisture. Other species do not damage structures but can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.

Can ants in my kitchen make my family sick?

Yes. Ants mechanically transfer bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli from unsanitary environments to food and food preparation surfaces. Heavy infestations pose a greater contamination risk than occasional scout ants. Pharaoh ants are documented carriers of pathogenic bacteria in residential and healthcare settings.

When are ants most active in Phoenix?

Ants are active year-round due to mild winters, but activity increases significantly from spring through fall. Monsoon season often triggers increased indoor invasions as ants seek shelter from flooding and are drawn to moisture around homes. Many species swarm to establish new colonies during late summer monsoon season.

Can I handle ants myself or should I call a professional?

Minor ant activity near an exterior door can often be managed by sealing the entry point and removing the food source. If ants persist after basic prevention, appear in multiple areas, or if you are dealing with carpenter ants or fire ants, professional treatment is recommended.

Is it worth paying for ongoing ant control in Phoenix?

In Phoenix, yes. The year-round warm climate means new ant colonies are always establishing nearby. Quarterly or bimonthly service maintains a protective barrier that prevents recolonization, saving you the cost and frustration of repeated one-time treatments.

How quickly can fire ants reinfest a treated yard?

Without ongoing treatment, new colonies from neighboring properties can establish mounds within a few weeks. Fire ants are also attracted to electrical currents and have been documented causing damage to outdoor A/C units, irrigation controllers, pool equipment, and landscape lighting by nesting inside electrical housings.

Is it safe to mow over fire ant mounds?

No. Running a lawn mower over a fire ant mound triggers an immediate swarming response. Ants will climb onto the mower, your shoes, and your legs within seconds. Always flag mound locations and have them professionally treated before mowing.

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Cockroaches

What is the most common cockroach in Phoenix?

The American cockroach and the Turkestan cockroach are the most common outdoor species. The German cockroach is the most common indoor species. Which one you encounter depends largely on whether the roach was found inside living spaces or in garages, yards, and utility areas.

Does keeping a clean house prevent cockroaches?

Cleanliness reduces food sources, but cockroaches also need water and shelter, which even the cleanest homes provide. German cockroaches may arrive in grocery bags, boxes, or used appliances. American cockroaches enter from outdoor populations through drains and gaps. A clean home with unsealed gaps and a dripping pipe can still develop an infestation.

Why do large roaches come inside during monsoon season?

American cockroaches live in Phoenix’s sewer and storm drain systems. When heavy monsoon rains flood these systems, roaches are pushed above ground and seek shelter in the nearest structures. A perimeter barrier treatment before monsoon season is the most effective prevention strategy.

Where do German cockroaches come from?

German cockroaches do not enter from outside like American or Turkestan roaches. They are almost always introduced through infested items: cardboard boxes, grocery bags, used appliances, or furniture. Multi-unit housing allows them to spread between apartments through shared walls and plumbing.

How long does it take to eliminate German cockroaches?

Professional treatment typically requires two to four visits over four to eight weeks for full elimination. The initial treatment kills active adults and nymphs, while follow-up treatments target newly hatched roaches from existing egg cases. The timeline depends on the severity of the infestation and how well sanitation and moisture issues are managed between visits.

Why do I see more roaches right after treatment?

This is common and actually a sign that the treatment is working. Bait and dust applications disrupt roach behavior, flushing them out of harborage sites. Activity typically peaks for a few days after treatment and then drops sharply over the following one to two weeks.

Will cockroaches go away on their own?

No. Cockroaches do not leave voluntarily. Without intervention, the population will grow. Even if conditions change, roaches already inside your home will continue breeding.

Do cockroaches fly in Phoenix?

American cockroaches and male Turkestan cockroaches can fly short distances, especially in warm weather. German cockroaches have wings but do not fly. Brown-banded cockroaches occasionally glide but do not sustain flight.

Do cockroaches bite?

Cockroaches can bite, but it is very rare. They may nibble on fingernails, eyelashes, or skin in cases of very large infestations where food is scarce. The real health risks come from bacterial contamination and airborne allergens, not bites.

Can I get rid of cockroaches without chemicals?

You can reduce populations with diatomaceous earth, sticky traps, and rigorous sanitation, but chemical-free approaches are slow and rarely achieve full elimination on their own. They work best as part of an integrated approach that includes professional treatment.

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Rodents

How do I know if I have roof rats or pack rats?

Roof rats are sleek, dark-colored, and found primarily in attics, rooflines, and trees. Pack rats are stockier, lighter colored, and build visible nests from sticks and debris in ground-level locations like sheds, engine compartments, and landscaping. Droppings and nesting behavior are the quickest ways to identify the species.

Why do you use traps instead of poison?

Poisoned rodents die in unpredictable locations, frequently inside wall voids and attic spaces, creating severe odor problems that can last weeks and attracting flies and other secondary pests. Trapping allows us to capture and remove rodents in controlled locations. It is more effective, more predictable, and avoids secondary problems.

Will rodents come back after treatment?

Properly executed exclusion using rodent-resistant materials provides lasting protection. However, new entry points can develop over time due to settling, wear, or construction changes. We recommend periodic inspections to verify exclusion integrity, especially on older homes.

What size gap can a rodent fit through?

Mice can squeeze through openings as small as a dime, roughly 1/4 inch. Rats need a slightly larger gap, about the diameter of a quarter. This is why thorough sealing with chew-proof materials is essential for every crack, gap, and penetration in your home’s exterior.

Is expanding foam enough to keep rodents out?

No. Rodents can chew through expanding foam, caulk, rubber, and most plastic materials. Effective rodent-proofing requires metal-based barriers such as steel wool, copper mesh, hardware cloth, or galvanized flashing. You can use foam as a finishing layer over metal mesh, but never as the sole barrier.

Can rodents damage my home’s electrical wiring?

Yes. Rodents gnaw constantly to wear down their continuously growing teeth, and electrical wiring is a common target. Gnawed wiring creates a real fire risk and is one of the most serious consequences of an unaddressed rodent infestation.

How do citrus trees contribute to rodent problems?

Citrus trees are the primary food source for roof rats in urban Phoenix. Fallen fruit left on the ground is especially attractive, but rats also feed directly from the tree. Prompt fruit harvest, thinning dense canopy, and trimming branches away from rooflines are the most impactful steps a homeowner can take.

Are pack rats dangerous?

Pack rats themselves rarely bite people, but they create serious indirect hazards. They chew through electrical wiring (creating fire risk), automotive wiring, pool pump wiring, and irrigation tubing. Their nests attract kissing bugs (conenose bugs), which feed on blood and can trigger severe allergic reactions. A single pack rat nesting in pool equipment can cause thousands of dollars in damage.

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Spiders

How common are black widows in Phoenix?

Very common. Black widows are one of the most frequently encountered spiders in the Phoenix metro area. They thrive in the warm, dry climate and are found in nearly every neighborhood, in garages, block wall caps, ground-level clutter, meter boxes, and outdoor storage.

Are black widow bites fatal?

Fatalities from black widow bites are very rare in the United States. Modern medical care effectively manages symptoms in the vast majority of cases. However, bites are painful and debilitating, and they always warrant medical attention.

How do I tell a black widow from other black spiders?

The red hourglass marking on the underside of the abdomen is the definitive feature of a female black widow. If you see a shiny black spider and are unsure, do not flip it over to check. Other black spiders in the Phoenix area, such as jumping spiders, lack the bulbous abdomen and signature marking.

Are brown recluse spiders common in Phoenix?

Brown recluse spiders exist in Arizona but are far less common in the Phoenix metro area than black widows. They are light to dark brown with a distinctive violin-shaped mark behind the head. If you suspect a brown recluse, contact a pest control professional for identification.

How can I tell a wolf spider from a brown recluse?

Wolf spiders are hairy with prominent eyes and striped markings. Brown recluses are smooth-bodied with a uniform brown color and a small violin-shaped mark. Brown recluses have only six eyes arranged in three pairs, while wolf spiders have eight eyes in three rows. When in doubt, do not handle the spider.

Are wolf spiders dangerous?

Wolf spiders are not considered medically significant. Their bites may cause mild pain and localized swelling, similar to a bee sting, but they do not produce the systemic effects associated with black widow or brown recluse venom. They are, however, fast-moving and large enough to be startling.

Does peppermint oil actually repel spiders?

Yes. Studies and field experience confirm that peppermint oil is an effective short-term repellent. Spiders avoid areas treated with concentrated peppermint because the strong scent interferes with their chemical sensing. Reapply every one to two weeks for continued effectiveness, especially in the dry Phoenix climate where evaporation happens faster.

Why do I keep finding spiders in my garage?

Garages typically have more entry points (gaps under doors, vents, utility penetrations) and more clutter (cardboard boxes, stored items) than the rest of the house. They also attract insects that provide an easy food source for spiders.

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Crickets

Do crickets really attract scorpions?

Yes. Arizona bark scorpions are predators that follow their food supply. Crickets are among their primary prey items in urban environments. Pest control professionals consistently find that reducing cricket populations around a home leads to measurable reductions in scorpion activity indoors.

Why are there so many crickets around my porch lights?

Crickets are strongly attracted to white and ultraviolet light sources. Standard porch lights and security lights draw crickets from across your yard and even neighboring properties. Switching to amber or sodium vapor bulbs reduces attraction by up to ninety percent while still providing adequate lighting.

Do crickets bite?

Crickets can bite, but they rarely do. Their mouthparts are designed for chewing plant material and fabric, not for biting skin. A cricket bite is not dangerous and does not transmit disease.

Are crickets harmful to my home?

Crickets can cause minor damage to fabrics, paper, and wallpaper through feeding, particularly items soiled with food stains or perspiration. Large indoor populations can damage clothing and curtains over time. Their presence also attracts scorpions and spiders, which pose greater risks.

Can I get rid of crickets by just sealing my home?

Sealing entry points helps reduce the number that get inside, but it does not address the population breeding in your yard and landscape. A sealed home with a heavy exterior cricket population will still attract scorpions. The most effective approach combines exclusion with perimeter treatment to reduce the overall population.

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Fleas and Ticks

How long does it take to get rid of fleas after treatment?

Most flea infestations are fully resolved within two to three weeks after treatment, assuming your pet is on concurrent flea prevention. You will see a sharp decline within the first few days, with stragglers emerging from pupal cocoons over the following two weeks. Regular vacuuming after treatment speeds up the process.

Can I have a flea problem without pets?

Yes. Fleas can be introduced by wildlife (especially roof rats, stray cats, and raccoons) that travel through your yard or access your attic. Homes where previous tenants had pets can also harbor dormant flea pupae that emerge when new occupants move in, triggered by vibration and body heat.

Do fleas survive Phoenix summers outdoors?

Fleas struggle in direct desert sun and low humidity, but they thrive in shaded, irrigated areas of residential yards, under bushes, in grass near sprinklers, and beneath patios. Outdoor survival in Phoenix depends entirely on access to shade and moisture.

Can humans get fleas?

Fleas do not infest humans the way they infest pets, but they will bite people. Flea bites on humans typically appear as small, red, itchy bumps clustered around the ankles and lower legs.

Are brown dog ticks dangerous?

Brown dog ticks can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which has caused serious illness in Arizona communities. They also cause irritation, blood loss, and secondary infections on dogs. Because brown dog ticks reproduce indoors, infestations can grow large if not addressed promptly.

Can brown dog ticks infest my house even if my dog stays indoors?

Yes. Brown dog ticks can be brought indoors on a dog after even brief outdoor exposure. Once inside, they establish a reproducing population in the home, laying eggs in cracks, behind baseboards, and in furniture. Brown dog ticks are one of the few tick species capable of completing their entire life cycle indoors.

How do I safely remove a tick?

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not twist, jerk, or squeeze the tick body. After removal, clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. Save the tick in a sealed container in case identification is needed. Do not use matches, petroleum jelly, or nail polish, as these can cause the tick to regurgitate pathogens.

Can ticks jump or fly?

No. Ticks cannot jump, fly, or drop from trees. They reach hosts by questing, waiting on vegetation with their front legs extended, then grabbing onto a host that brushes past. This is why ticks are most commonly picked up on legs and lower body areas.

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Other Pests

Are Palo Verde beetles harmful?

No. Palo Verde beetles look alarming due to their large size, but adults do not bite, sting, or damage homes. Their larvae can harm Palo Verde trees by feeding on roots underground, but the adults are short-lived and primarily a nuisance when attracted to lights during summer evenings.

How do I know if I have carpet beetles?

Look for irregular holes in wool, silk, or cotton fabrics. Check under furniture edges, along baseboards, and inside closets for small, fuzzy larvae or shed larval skins. Carpet beetles can infest any home with natural fiber materials, even clean ones. Their larvae feed on wool, silk, leather, pet hair, and lint.

Do carpet beetles bite?

Carpet beetles do not bite. However, their larvae have tiny bristly hairs that can cause skin irritation, redness, and itching. This reaction is often mistaken for insect bites.

Do earwigs actually crawl into your ears?

This is a persistent myth with no scientific basis. Earwigs have no special attraction to human ears. Their presence indoors is a moisture and entry-point issue. A sudden appearance of earwigs almost always correlates with a moisture change: new irrigation, a plumbing leak, monsoon humidity, or a malfunctioning AC condensation drain.

Do adult moths eat clothes or food?

No. Adult moths have reduced or nonfunctional mouthparts. It is exclusively the larval stage that feeds and causes damage. Adults exist only to mate and lay eggs. If you see an adult moth, the damage has already been done by larvae somewhere nearby.

Why do I keep getting pantry moths even after cleaning?

Pantry moth larvae can hide in surprising places: inside the folds of packaging, behind shelf liners, in cracks between shelves, and even inside unopened products that were contaminated before purchase. A thorough inspection of every stored food item, including pet food and birdseed stored in garages, is necessary to find and eliminate the source.

Why do I have tiny flies around my kitchen sink?

Small flies near the kitchen sink are most likely drain flies or fruit flies. Drain flies breed in the biofilm inside the drain and have a fuzzy, moth-like appearance. Fruit flies breed in food residue and have red eyes. Cleaning the inside of the drain with a brush usually resolves drain fly issues, while removing overripe produce addresses fruit flies.

How fast do flies reproduce?

Very fast. A house fly can complete its life cycle from egg to reproducing adult in as little as seven days in Phoenix summer temperatures. This is why prompt sanitation and exclusion matter more than any other intervention.

Are aphids harmful to humans?

Aphids are not harmful to humans. They do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases to people. Their impact is limited to plants, where they can cause cosmetic and structural damage through feeding and virus transmission. The ants you often see on aphid-infested plants are feeding on honeydew that aphids produce.

Are all bees in Phoenix Africanized?

Not all, but the majority of feral (wild) honey bee colonies in the Phoenix area carry Africanized genetics. Managed colonies maintained by beekeepers are typically European honey bees. Because the two cannot be distinguished visually, any unmanaged bee colony should be treated as potentially Africanized and approached with caution.

What should I do if bees are chasing me?

Run in a straight line toward the nearest enclosed shelter, a building or car. Pull your shirt over your head to protect your face. Do not swat at the bees, jump into water, or hide in vegetation. Africanized bees will wait above water and continue stinging when you surface.

Is the giant desert centipede dangerous?

The giant desert centipede delivers a painful, venomous bite, but it is rarely dangerous to healthy adults. Symptoms include intense localized pain, swelling, and redness lasting several hours. If you experience systemic symptoms (difficulty breathing, widespread swelling, or dizziness), seek medical attention.

Why do I see so many millipedes after rain?

Monsoon rains saturate the desert soil, forcing millipedes to the surface to avoid drowning. Large numbers may appear on patios, driveways, and walkways after storms. This behavior is temporary and subsides as conditions dry out. Millipedes do not damage homes, plants, or any structural materials.

How much damage can one gopher do?

A single gopher can tunnel through up to 200 feet of soil and create dozens of surface mounds. One gopher can destroy a small vegetable garden in days and significantly damage lawn areas within weeks. They also chew through drip irrigation tubing, PVC supply lines, and low-voltage landscape lighting wire.

Will gophers eventually leave on their own?

No. Gophers are territorial and once established, they remain in an area as long as food and suitable soil conditions exist. Phoenix’s irrigated landscapes provide both, so gophers that find your yard have little reason to leave. Active removal is necessary to resolve the problem.

Is it legal to remove bird nests from my home?

You can remove inactive pigeon nests from your property. However, many bird species are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and disturbing active nests with eggs or young birds may be illegal. Woodpeckers are federally protected. A professional bird control technician can advise you on the legal options.

Will bird spikes hurt the birds?

No. Properly designed bird spikes do not injure birds. The spikes create an uneven surface that prevents birds from landing comfortably, so they simply move to another location. Professional-grade spikes are blunted and designed to deter rather than harm.

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Commercial Pest Control

Do you offer after-hours service for businesses?

Yes. We offer early morning, evening, and weekend scheduling to accommodate your operations. Service times are established when we build your program and can be adjusted as your needs change.

Can you handle multiple business locations?

Absolutely. We manage multi-location accounts across the Phoenix metro area with centralized communication and consistent service standards. One point of contact, one invoice, and uniform documentation across all your properties.

What documentation do you provide for commercial accounts?

Every service visit generates a detailed report including areas treated, products applied, pest activity findings, and recommendations. We maintain digital records accessible on demand and can produce compliance documentation formatted for health department inspections, corporate audits, or franchise requirements.

How do you handle sensitive environments like medical offices?

We select reduced-risk products and application methods appropriate for healthcare and other sensitive settings. Treatment is scheduled during off-hours whenever possible, and we coordinate directly with facility management to avoid patient care areas during application.

What are the pest control requirements for restaurants?

Restaurants must maintain pest-free conditions to pass Maricopa County health inspections. This means regular professional treatment, documented service records, and prompt response to any pest sightings. A standard restaurant plan includes monthly interior and exterior treatments, rodent monitoring, and fly management during warmer months.

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Service Areas

Do you serve my city in the Phoenix metro?

If you are in the Phoenix metropolitan area, the answer is almost certainly yes. Uni-Tech Pest Control covers all 16 cities in the Valley, from Buckeye in the far west to Fountain Hills in the northeast, and from Cave Creek in the north to Queen Creek in the southeast. Call 602-962-8935 to confirm coverage at your address.

Do you service areas outside the cities listed on your website?

We focus on the Phoenix metro area and surrounding communities. If your city is not listed, call us at 602-962-8935. We may still be able to help depending on your location.

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Have a question we did not answer? Call Uni-Tech Pest Control at (602) 962-8935 or contact us online and we will get you the information you need.