Argentine ants are the most common household ant pest in California. Other pest ants that may be found around California homes include odorous house ants, pavement ants, carpenter ants, Pharaoh ants, thief ants, and southern fire ants. The correct treatment depends on the species, nest location, and property conditions, so identification may require an inspection.

Ants commonly enter homes while searching for food, water, shelter, or a more favorable nesting location. Crumbs, pet food, spills, plumbing leaks, moisture near foundations, unsealed trash, vegetation touching the structure, and small gaps around doors, windows, utility lines, and foundations can contribute to ant activity.

Common signs include repeated ant trails, ants around sinks or food storage areas, activity near windows or baseboards, small soil piles near cracks, winged ants, or activity that returns after surface spraying. The visible ants may represent only a small portion of a larger colony.

Many household ants are primarily a nuisance, but some species may bite or sting, contaminate food, tend plant pests, or nest in structures. Carpenter ants excavate wood to create nesting galleries and may be associated with damp or damaged wood. A professional inspection can help distinguish ant activity from termite activity and identify the appropriate service.

Talos begins by inspecting ant trails, likely entry points, moisture conditions, food sources, nesting areas, and other contributing conditions. Depending on the ant species and location, treatment may include baits, non-repellent materials, residual applications, direct nest treatment, targeted interior service, exterior perimeter treatment, and recommendations involving sanitation, moisture, landscaping, or entry points.

Treatment areas depend on where the ants are active, the species involved, the inspection findings, and the selected service plan. Service may include targeted interior treatment and exterior treatment around foundations, entry points, landscaping interfaces, or other activity areas.

A surface spray may kill visible worker ants without reaching the nest, queens, or connected colonies. Some products can also interrupt trails or cause activity to shift to another area. Effective control often requires species identification, locating contributing conditions, and using a treatment strategy designed to affect the colony rather than only the ants that are visible.

The timeline depends on the ant species, colony size, nest location, treatment method, weather, and property conditions. Visible activity may begin to change after treatment, while colony-focused baiting or non-repellent strategies can require additional time. The technician will explain what to expect and whether follow-up service is recommended.

Talos technicians select and apply products according to label directions, the ant issue, and property conditions. Customers should tell the team about children, pets, sensitivities, aquariums, gardens, or other concerns so any preparation, access, or re-entry instructions can be provided before service.

Store food in sealed containers, clean crumbs and spills, rinse recycling, keep trash containers closed, repair plumbing leaks, reduce standing water, trim vegetation away from the structure, avoid excessive moisture near the foundation, and seal accessible gaps where appropriate. Prevention recommendations may vary based on the ant species and property.

Ant control may be included as a covered service under eligible Talos general pest control plans. Coverage, treatment areas, follow-up service, and limitations are defined by the selected plan and the conditions found at the property. Talos will confirm the appropriate plan or one-time service after reviewing the ant activity.

Qualifying new residential customers who enroll in a new annual residential pest control plan and AutoPay may receive $150 off the qualifying initial general pest control service with promo code PEST150. The offer expires December 31, 2026. Complete eligibility requirements and exclusions are available on the Talos Special Offers page.

Talos Pest Control provides ant control throughout San Diego County, including coastal communities, inland neighborhoods, North County, East County, and South Bay. Customers can call or request a free estimate online to confirm service for a specific address or ZIP code.

Call or text Talos Pest Control at 888-998-2847, or request a free estimate online. Include the service address or ZIP code, where the ants are appearing, how long the activity has been present, and whether any store-bought products have already been used.