How To Choose a Pest Control Company
The first step is choosing the right pest control company for the job. Things you might consider include qualifications and licensing, treatment methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and cost.
Below, we explore the details of each of these factors.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
Per the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all pesticide applicators and those that supervise them need to be licensed at the state level. The EPA maintains minimum competency standards, and the California regulatory agencies handle the granting, maintaining, and revoking of licenses.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Pest control companies can optionally obtain certifications from QualityPro or similar trade organizations. While not required, they can help you evaluate the quality of a company's products. For example, the GreenPro Service Certification is given to companies that use comprehensive and effective pest control methods that are safer for people and the environment.
There are various professional organizations in which pest control companies can hold membership. Membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations is not mandatory, but helps confirm that a company follows industry best practices. The NPMA gives companies access to resources, education, and a network of pest professionals with whom to discuss practices and methods.
Professional Experience and Specialties
How long a company has been in business can tell you something about its experience dealing with various pests. Online reviews or the company's own website can also help you figure out whether it has the skills and experience needed to deal with your particular pests. If you cannot find the answers to your questions online, calling a representative is an excellent way to learn about the company's areas of expertise.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can view a company's reviews and rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), read local review sites and social media to learn what other people are saying, or verify its license standing through the California licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is an important consideration when choosing a pest control company. Cost may be determined by the type of pest being treated, your location, the size of your house, and other factors.
Certain pest control companies offer a free on-site estimate to help you match services to your budget. You can also look at whether it offers a guarantee of satisfaction.
Safety and Treatment Methods
It's important to consider safety when selecting a pest control professional. You might also prefer a provider who employs more natural, eco-friendly treatment methods.
Safety
Be sure to ask your pest control expert if they plan to use low toxicity or non-toxic pesticides, and if not, ask about what precautionary measures they will take. Any pesticide that has been deemed above minimum risk must be registered with the EPA. Your pest control company should be able to supply information about all of the pesticides to be used, and how safe they are around people and pets.
Treatment Methods
Many pest control companies are making the switch to using more natural and environmentally friendly treatment methods before, or in place of, harsh chemical pesticides. Some follow a program called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Identify problem pests and assess whether immediate action is needed.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of mechanical, cultural, biological, and physical controls.
- Employ chemical controls only if needed, and always in combination with other controls for effective long-term pest management.
- Observe the results and provide additional pest control methods as needed.
