Why Lagos rainy season means pest season
Every year from June to October, Lagos experiences a dramatic surge in pest activity. Flooding displaces rodents from drains and outdoor nesting sites. Stagnant water breeds mosquitoes. High humidity accelerates cockroach and termite reproduction cycles. Damp walls attract ants and silverfish.
If you have not fumigated since last dry season, your home almost certainly needs it now.
The pests that surge during Lagos rainy season
Cockroaches: Heavy rains force cockroaches out of outdoor drain systems and into buildings through sink drain pipes and wall gaps. A single cockroach sighting during rainy season usually means a larger infestation hidden in walls, behind appliances, or under cabinets.
Rats and mice: Flooding drives rodents out of ground-level burrows and street drains into buildings. Lagos drain rats are large and aggressive. They carry leptospirosis and contaminate food storage areas rapidly.
Mosquitoes: Any stagnant water — flower pots, blocked gutters, puddles in compounds — becomes a mosquito breeding ground within 48 hours. Malaria and dengue risk spikes during rainy season.
Termites: Wet soil during rainy season is when termite colonies expand and begin attacking new wooden structures. Early treatment is far cheaper than repairing termite-damaged furniture and structural timber.
Ants (soldier ants / siafu): Heavy rains force ant colonies to migrate. They enter buildings in large numbers searching for dry ground.
How often should you fumigate during rainy season?
Once at the start of rainy season (June) and once mid-season (August) is the minimum. Properties near drainage channels, open land, or with known pest history should fumigate every 6-8 weeks throughout rainy season.
Fumigation costs in Lagos (2026)
| Property Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment | N8,000 - N15,000 |
| 2-bedroom apartment | N12,000 - N22,000 |
| 3-bedroom apartment | N18,000 - N30,000 |
| 3-bedroom duplex | N25,000 - N45,000 |
| Office (open plan) | N20,000 - N50,000 |
| Termite treatment (per m²) | N2,000 - N5,000 |
Prices depend on the pest type, infestation severity, and product used. Severe infestations requiring multiple treatments or specialist chemicals cost more.
What to do before the fumigation team arrives
1. Remove food from open surfaces and seal food storage containers
2. Vacate the property for the treatment time (typically 3-4 hours)
3. Cover fish tanks and bird cages
4. Leave interior doors and cupboards open so treatment reaches everywhere
5. Wash all utensils and surfaces before using after treatment
After fumigation: what to expect
- You will see more cockroaches and insects in the first 24-48 hours as they come out of hiding due to the chemical — this is normal
- Wait at least 4-6 hours before re-entering
- Ventilate thoroughly before sleeping in the property
- Book a follow-up treatment in 3-4 weeks if the infestation was severe
Post-flood fumigation
If your home has been flooded, fumigation is not optional — it is essential. Floodwater brings in drain bacteria, rodents, cockroaches, and mosquito larvae. Post-flood fumigation should include full disinfection in addition to pest treatment.
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