Ant Control Sydney for Homes, Strata and Businesses

Contact a pest management technician when DIY treatments have not cleared the infestation, when ants are returning after surface spray, when you are finding ants in multiple rooms or in food, or when nesting is suspected inside walls or the roof void. A professional identifies the species and applies treatment most likely to reach the colony.

Visible ant activity may begin reducing within several days, but established or multi-nest colonies often require more time and follow-up. The technician will explain the expected timeframe based on the species, property and treatment selected.

Yes. White ants is a common name for termites. They are not ants and require different treatment. Standard ant baiting does not control termites. If you suspect white ants, visit our termite inspection page or call (02) 8073 9252.

Red imported fire ants are not known to be established in Sydney. NSW has recorded detections in the state’s north, but no confirmed NSW detections have been reported since July 2025. If you suspect fire ants, do not disturb the nest or move soil, plants or materials from the area. Report the sighting through the NSW Government fire-ant reporting channel.

Flying ants are reproductive ants dispersing to form new colonies. They are not a separate species. Seeing flying ants indoors usually means an established colony is nearby. Flying ants are often confused with termite swarmers. If you are not certain which insect you are seeing, call for an identification inspection before treating.

Big-headed ants, also known as coastal brown ants, build large multi-queen colonies in soil and around garden edges and foundations. Spot treatment rarely controls them. A baiting programme placed across the full colony extent is the most effective approach. Call Tom’s Pest Control Sydney for an inspection.

Overnight elimination of an established colony is unlikely. Visible activity may begin reducing within several days as bait is carried back through the colony, but established nests often require more time and follow-up. DIY sprays may reduce visible ants temporarily but rarely clear the colony.

Argentine ants require gel baiting applied across the full extent of the colony, including exterior trails and fence lines if the colony extends to neighbouring properties. Repellent surface sprays may disrupt trails without treating the wider colony. A slow-acting bait allows workers to carry the active ingredient back to all queen locations.

Gel baits in stations are protected from direct rain. Exterior barrier or spray treatments may require re-application if heavy rain occurs shortly after treatment. Your technician will advise on the weather window for the specific products used. Most treatments are effective once dry.

Signs include persistent trails in kitchens or bathrooms, small soil piles near walls or skirting, ants in food or appliances, and activity returning after DIY spray treatment. If you see any of these signs, book an inspection. Nests may already be established in wall cavities or the subfloor where they are not visible.

Common ant species treated by Tom’s Pest Control Sydney include black house ants, Argentine ants, carpenter ants, white-footed house ants, coastal brown ants (big-headed ants) and bull ants. Each species has different nesting habits, food preferences and treatment requirements.