How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When selecting a pest control expert, there are several factors you can consider to be sure that you're choosing the best one for you. You may consider a company's qualifications, methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and service prices.
Below, we discuss each factor in more detail.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
All pesticide applicators (and those who supervise them) must be certified at the state level. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum standards of competency, but any pesticide applicators working in California must be licensed via the necessary state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
A pest control company can optionally apply for certifications from QualityPro or similar trade organizations to verify its methods and standards. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is given to any company that can demonstrate that its methods are more eco-friendly. These companies also need to maintain certain training standards for employees.
There are various professional organizations that pest control companies can be members of. Pest control companies can join both state-level organizations and national organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). By being a member of these optional organizations, a company helps support its reputability and gains access to resources, education, and a network of other professionals with whom to compare best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
Looking at how long a pest control company has been in business can help determine how much experience it has handling various pests in Diamond Bar. You can also explore its website or peruse customer reviews to decide whether it has the right kind of experience handling the type of pests you are struggling with. If this information is not available online, speaking with a company representative is a good way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can look at a company's rating and reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), explore local review sites and social media to see what others in your area have to say, 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 your location, the size of your house, the type of pest being treated, and other factors.
Certain pest control companies offer a free on-site estimate to help you figure out if it fits into your budget. You can also check to see if it offers a guarantee of satisfaction.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Keeping yourself, your family and your pets safe is an important concern when choosing a pest control provider. You may also prefer one that uses eco-friendly pest management treatment methods.
Safety
Ask your pest control technician if they plan on using low toxicity or non-toxic pesticides—if not, ask what precautionary measures they will take. Any pesticide that poses greater than minimum risk needs to be registered with the EPA. Your pest control company should be able to supply information about all pesticides used, in addition to how safe they are around people and pets.
Treatment Methods
Many pest control companies are making the switch to using more natural and greener treatment methods before (or in place of) harsh chemical pesticides. Some use a program called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and assess whether immediate action is required.
- 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 along with other controls for effective long-term pest management.
- Observe the results and provide additional pest control treatments as needed.
