The disadvantages of fumigation include the inconvenience of having to vacate the property for several days and the preparation required to seal or remove certain items. It does not provide long-term pest prevention, so reinfestations are possible if preventative measures are not taken. Fumigation can be costly compared to other pest control methods, and the process involves the use of potentially hazardous chemicals, which requires careful handling to ensure safety. Additionally, fumigation is ineffective against pests that are not within the structure during treatment, such as ants or cockroaches outside the home.