Help With Ant Problems

Ants keep coming back? Let’s find your next step.

Whether you’re seeing ants in the kitchen, around your home, or out in the yard, tell us what’s happening. Learn about your options and ask a local pest-control company about an inspection or a quote.

A few details can help: where you see ants, when they appear, and how long the problem has been going on. Add those details to your request.

Homeowner and inspector looking at kitchen cabinets
Editorial illustration of a kitchen moisture check near cabinets where ant trails often appear

Why do ants keep coming back?

The ants you see may be travelling from a nest elsewhere. Cleaning up a trail can help for a while, but food, water, or an opening into the home may keep bringing them back. An inspection helps identify the ants and work out where to focus treatment.

Different ant problems need different approaches. Ants around food, ants near damp wood, and mounds in the yard are useful clues to share when you ask about an inspection.

Where are the ants coming from?

A trail can help show where ants are coming in and what they’re heading toward. Note the rooms you see them in and any nearby food or water. If you can, take a clear photo to share when you speak with someone.

You don’t need to identify the ants yourself. Mention anything else you’ve noticed, such as small piles of sawdust, winged ants, or mounds outside. Those details can help an inspector know where to look.

Editorial illustration of coarse wood frass associated with carpenter ant nesting, not a documented job photo

What kind of ant problem are you seeing?

Carpenter ants and wet wood

If you’re seeing large ants near damp wood or small piles of sawdust, ask about a carpenter ant inspection. Mention any leaks you know about, including around windows, the roof, or a crawlspace.

Fire ants in the yard

Seeing mounds in the yard or ants that sting? Tell the company where they are and whether children or pets use that area. Ask about an inspection and treatment options, and avoid disturbing the mounds.

Ant trails indoors

For ants in the kitchen or bathroom, describe where the trails start and when you notice them. Ask how treatment will address the source of the problem and help keep ants from returning.

What should you ask before booking?

Ask what the visit includes, how much it costs, and whether a follow-up is included. It’s also helpful to know what you’ll need to do before treatment and when you can use the area again.

Have children or pets at home? Mention them when discussing treatment. For a business, let the company know your opening hours so you can talk about a convenient time to visit.

Editorial illustration of a foundation and slab edge where pavement ants and other species often enter

Why ant activity changes through the year

You may notice more ants as the weather changes, after rain, or when they find food and water indoors. Tell the inspector if the problem comes and goes or returns at the same time each year.

Keep exploring your options

Want to learn more before getting in touch? Explore the services below, or send a question about what’s happening at your property.

A closer look at ants

Not sure which ants you’re seeing?

If you’re seeing ants around your home, a clear photo and a note about where they appear can help. You don’t need to identify them yourself. An inspector can look at the trails, nearby wood, or outdoor mounds and explain your options.

Large ants near wood?

Carpenter ants often nest near damp or decaying wood, although some nests are in drier spaces. Seeing a large ant doesn’t automatically mean your home is damaged. Mention any leaks or wood debris when you ask about an inspection.

University of Minnesota Extension carpenter ant guide
How we check our information

Common questions about ant control

Can I ask for a quote without knowing the type of ant?

Yes. Tell us where you’re seeing ants and how long they’ve been there. You can ask about an inspection to help work out the next step.

Do carpenter ants eat wood?

Carpenter ants make nests in wood, but they don’t eat it. If you notice ants around damp wood or small piles of sawdust, ask about an inspection.

What should I ask about treatment?

Ask what’s included, the price, how to prepare, and whether a follow-up is part of the plan. Mention children and pets when discussing the options.

Who carries out the treatment?

A separate pest-control company carries out any work you book. You can discuss the price and appointment details with that company before deciding.

Ready to ask about your ant problem?

Tell us what you’ve noticed and ask about an inspection or a quote. You decide whether to book after speaking with a company.