7 Signs You Need To Call A Pest Control Professional Now

Territory Pest Control • May 21, 2025

Are you noticing more pests around your home lately? While some homeowners may attempt DIY pest control methods to tackle small issues, there comes a point when it’s time to call in a professional. If pests are taking over your space, it's crucial to address the issue before it becomes a major problem. But how do you know when it’s time to stop relying on DIY solutions and get professional help? Let’s dive into the signs that you need pest control in Darwin, Alice Springs, or Katherine, and why professional assistance is often the best course of action.

1. Unusual Sounds or Sightings

If you’ve heard strange scratching, gnawing, or scurrying sounds in the walls, attic, or under the floors, it could indicate an infestation of rodents, such as rats or mice. These pests are active at night and are often heard moving around or chewing on wires, insulation, and even food.


  • Rodents in Darwin, Alice Springs, or Katherine: Rodents are particularly common in these regions due to the warm climate and proximity to food sources. If you spot any droppings, nests, or damaged food packaging, it’s time to call a pest control professional.


A visual sighting of insects or rodents in your home can also be a clear sign of an infestation. Seeing pests regularly around your property means the problem is more extensive than a few stragglers.


2. Unexplained Property Damage

Pests such as termites, rodents, and ants can cause extensive damage to your home if left unchecked. Termites, in particular, are notorious for silently eating away at wooden structures, causing structural damage that can be costly to repair.


  • Termites in Alice Springs or Katherine: Termite damage is often hidden and can go unnoticed for a long time. If you notice hollow or brittle wood, sagging floors, or buckled paint on walls, it could be a sign that termites have infested your home.
  • Rodents can chew through wires, insulation, and even plumbing pipes, causing electrical hazards or leaks. If you’ve noticed any damage to these areas, don’t wait for the situation to get worse.


It’s important to address any signs of property damage early on to avoid costly repairs and further destruction. Professional pest control services can identify and treat the underlying problem before it spreads.

3. Persistent Pest Sightings

Have you noticed pests consistently showing up in your home, despite trying various DIY methods? This may be a sign that your efforts aren’t enough to eliminate the problem. Some pests, like ants and cockroaches, are resilient and can return quickly if not fully eradicated.


  • Pest Control in Katherine: If you live in Katherine and find yourself repeatedly battling with ants, termites, or cockroaches, it’s time to seek professional help. These pests can be difficult to manage without the right tools and knowledge.


Even if you’ve tried traps, sprays, or natural remedies, a professional pest control team will have access to more effective treatments, ensuring a long-term solution to the problem.

4. Increasing Numbers of Pests

One of the most obvious signs that it’s time to call a pest control professional is the growing number of pests in your home. If you’re noticing an increase in pest activity, such as seeing more ants in the kitchen or hearing more scurrying sounds at night, the infestation is likely larger than you realise.


  • Pest Control in Alice Springs: In Alice Springs, pests like ants, rodents, and even termites can be attracted to the heat, moisture, and food sources inside your home. As the infestation grows, so does the complexity of eliminating the pests. Professional pest control services can help reduce their numbers and eliminate the source of the problem.


Rather than letting the issue escalate, it's best to call a professional as soon as you notice the numbers growing. A pest control expert can determine the scope of the problem and implement a targeted solution.

5. Unpleasant Odours

A strong, musty, or foul smell in your home can often be a sign of a pest infestation. Rodents, for example, leave behind a pungent odour due to their urine and droppings, while dead pests can cause a lingering, unpleasant smell.


  • Rodent and insect odours: If you’ve noticed a strong, unusual smell coming from hidden areas like the attic or under-floor space, it could be an indication of a dead rodent or a growing infestation. Insects like cockroaches or termites can also leave behind smells due to decaying bodies or pheromones.


If the smell persists and you can't locate the source, it’s time to call a pest control professional who can identify the issue and remove the pests.

6. Health Concerns

Pests are more than just an inconvenience—they can also pose serious health risks. Many pests, including rodents, cockroaches, and mosquitoes, carry diseases that can affect your health and the health of your family members.


  • Health risks: Rodents and cockroaches are known to spread diseases such as salmonella, leptospirosis, and asthma-inducing allergens. Mosquitoes in northern regions are also carriers of diseases like dengue fever and Ross River virus. If you or a family member have experienced unexplained illnesses or allergic reactions, pests may be to blame.


If you suspect that pests are compromising your health or safety, it’s time to call in the professionals. They can identify the pests and treat the infestation to reduce health risks in your home.

7. Lack of Effective DIY Solutions

DIY pest control solutions can often be a good starting point for small issues, but they’re rarely effective in the long term, especially if the infestation is severe. If you’ve tried multiple DIY methods and the problem persists, it’s time to stop and call a professional.


  • Professional pest control services: Professional pest control experts have access to stronger, more effective treatments that are not available to the public. They also have the expertise to address the root cause of the infestation, preventing future problems.

Reach Out for Effective Pest Control Solutions

Pests are a common issue for homeowners, but when the problem escalates beyond your control, it's time to call in the experts. If you're dealing with increasing numbers of pests, unexplained property damage, or health concerns, it's essential to seek professional pest control in Darwin, Alice Springs, or Katherine.


At Territory Pest Control, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive pest control services tailored to your needs. Our team has the experience, tools, and expertise to effectively eliminate pests from your property and prevent future infestations.


Contact us today to schedule an inspection and protect your home from pests.

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