Are Fleas Living in My Carpet? Signs to Check in a Peterborough Home

Fleas are living in your carpet if you can find jumping specks, black grit that smears red on damp paper, or a pattern of bites around the ankles. In a city as varied as Peterborough, what you do about it depends on the kind of home you are in, so it helps to think about the building as well as the room.

The Basic Check, Anywhere

Whatever the property, begin the same way. Wear tall white socks and walk slowly across each carpeted room. Look at the fabric afterwards for dark specks. Press a few black grains on to damp white paper and watch for the red-brown smear. If you have an animal, comb its coat over paper too.

If You Live in a Flat

• Fleas cannot be blamed on a neighbour without evidence, but a neighbour's animal is a possible source if you have no pet and the flat has been lived in for a long time without trouble.
• Carpet in a flat may be one continuous run from the hall into the bedrooms, so fleas can spread along it.
• If you rent, tell your landlord or agent early and keep a record of dates and photos.
• Look at whether a previous tenant kept an animal; pet hair along skirting is a clue.

If You Live in a Terrace or Semi

Here the pattern is usually simpler: an animal, a few favourite spots and carpet on the stairs. Check the landing and stairs as well as the living areas, since fleas hitch rides between floors.

If You Are in a Newer Estate Home

New carpets do not protect against fleas; they arrive on pets, clothing and second-hand furniture, and eggs settle into any carpet. Newer houses often have fitted carpet in almost every room, which can mean several rooms to include.

Commercial and Letting Premises

We also see enquiries about lets, offices and other premises. A shared carpeted room, a staff room or a residential flat above a shop can all be affected. The checks are the same, though the number of rooms may differ.

Cost and Next Steps

Our flea control in Peterborough is £220 for the first room and £60 for each extra, fixed and confirmed beforehand, with no call-out fee. The flea treatment cost guide shows what is included. Vacuum before we arrive, empty the cleaner outside in a sealed bag, and do not vacuum or wash the carpet for at least two weeks afterwards. If the problem returns within 14 days we re-treat free.

Peterborough is a large city with every kind of housing, and we are happy to talk through whichever kind of property you live in. Tell us the type of building, the floor, and the number of carpeted rooms when you call, and we can give you an honest view of how a visit to your Peterborough address would work.

Not sure it is fleas? A pest inspection and survey costs £120. Call 01223 902388 or send a WhatsApp message.