How To Choose a Pest Control Company
The first step is picking the best pest control professional for the job. A company's qualifications and treatment methods are important to consider, as are its years of experience and reputation in customer reviews. Of course, you also want to think about cost.
Below, we discuss each of these factors in more detail.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
All pesticide applicators, as well as those that supervise them, should be licensed via the appropriate California regulatory agencies. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum standards of competency, while providing, maintaining, and revoking licensing is handled at the state level.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
A pest control company can optionally apply for certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro in order to back up its methods and standards. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is given when a company can demonstrate that its methods are more environmentally friendly. Companies that receive this certification also need to maintain certain training standards for employees.
Pest control companies can also become members of certain professional organizations. While not mandatory, membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help show a company's reputability. Organizations like the NPMA provide access to resources, education, and a network of other professionals with whom to discuss best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
Looking at a pest control company's website can tell you how long it has been in operation and what type of pests it specializes in exterminating. Online reviews can also offer some insight into a company's experience dealing with specific pests. If you can't find this information online, you can try contacting the company directly.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can look up a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, explore reviews on local review sites or social media, or check the standing of its license via the California licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
For many people, cost is one of the most important factors when looking for pest control services. Cost can be influenced by factors like your location, the type of pest being treated, and the size of your house.
You can look into whether a certain company offers free on-site estimates (to determine if it fits your budget), and what sort of guarantees it provides. Often, a company will guarantee that if your pest problem isn't fixed by its treatment, it will continue to treat until it is.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Safety is an important consideration when choosing a pest control professional, and you might prefer a provider who uses more natural, environmentally friendly treatment plans.
Safety
It's important to understand the precautions around pesticides being used around your home, for the sake of your family, your pets, and yourself. Your pest control technician should supply information about all pesticides they will be using, whether they are low toxicity or non-toxic, and (if not) what safety measures will be used. All pesticides (except minimum-risk ones) should be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Many companies are now exploring more eco-friendly pest control solutions that can be used before (or in place of) chemical pesticides. Many follow the practice of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which goes as follows:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and determine whether immediate action is needed.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of mechanical, cultural, biological, and physical controls.
- Use chemical controls only when required, and always with other solutions for effective long-term pest management.
- Evaluate outcomes and implement additional pest control as needed.
