Pre-Inspection Checklist

The key to a successful and accurate bed bug inspection is completing our Pre-Detection Checklist before the K9 Detection Team arrives. Please note that this checklist will be reviewed again upon their arrival.

Declutter thoroughly

Remove or organize piles of clothing, papers, books, toys, shoes, and any items on the floor. The dog needs a clear path, access to baseboards, furniture legs, and hidden areas. A cluttered space reduces detection accuracy.

Vacuum & Sweep all floors

This helps remove food debris, crumbs, and other organic material that can create competing scents. It also eliminates potential hazards the dog might accidentally ingest while sniffing closely along baseboards and floors, such as dropped pills, small toys, coins, or sharp objects, helping to keep the detection dog safe and focused during the search.

Remove all bedding and linens

Remove all linens from the beds (sheets, blankets, and pillows). Strip the beds completely, leaving only the mattress and box spring. Pull the bed(s) at least three feet away from the wall to allow the detection dog proper access around the bed.

Remove all animals

It is imperative that all animals (dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, etc.) be removed from the property at least one hour before our arrival. The bed bug detection dog is highly focused on its target scent and can become distracted or stressed by the presence of other animals

Remove or secure food, water bowls, pet food & toys

These items are all potential distractions and must be placed out of sight and out of mind (completely removed from the inspection area) before the canine detection team arrives.

Do not apply any insecticides, sprays, powders, or traps

For at least 7–14 days before the inspection (confirm with your inspector). Fresh chemicals can mask or contaminate scents.

Thermostat

An hour before your appointment, set the air conditioner down to at least 70 degrees or below in the summer, or set the heater at 70 degrees or below in the winter.

Smoking and Odor Control

Extinguish all smoking materials (cigarettes, cigars, vapes, etc.) within the home at least 2 hours prior to the canine detection inspection. Remove or turn off all odor-producing products, including plug-ins, air fresheners, scented candles, essential oil diffusers, incense, and any other strong-smelling items.

Minimize Noises & Distractions

Eliminate all noise and distractions during the canine detection inspection. Turn off televisions, radios, music, phones (set to silent), fans, air purifiers, and any other noisy appliances. Keep talking to a minimum and avoid loud footsteps or sudden movements. Maintain a calm, quiet environment so the dog can focus on its work without interference.

Inform the inspector

Any other animals in the home (even if removed).
Recent pesticide or insecticide use (type, when, and where applied).
Any known or suspected bed bug sightings/locations.
Presence of strong odors (candles, air fresheners, essential oils, cleaners, paint, smoke, etc.) that could interfere with the dog's nose.

What NOT to do

Do not spray anything (even "natural" or "bed bug" sprays) right before.
Do not leave dirty laundry or items on floors
Do not use bug bombs/foggers (they can spread bed bugs and ruin the dog's detection).
Do not leave food or crumbs out.
Do not use air fresheners or plug-ins.

After the inspection

The handler will review the results with you on the spot, including any alerts, confirmed findings, and recommended next steps (such as treatment options or follow-up inspections).
If bed bugs are detected, act quickly on the provided recommendations to prevent spreading.
If no bed bugs are found, continue monitoring for signs (bites, spots, or live bugs) and consider a follow-up inspection in 2–4 weeks if you remain concerned.
Return furniture and beds to their normal positions only after the handler confirms the inspection is complete.
Resume normal activities, but avoid applying any pesticides or treatments unless advised by the inspector (fresh chemicals can interfere with future detections).
Launder any items that were set aside and vacuum floors again if needed to remove any disturbed debris.

Day-of Inspection Tips