How To Choose a Pest Control Company
There are a number of things that you can consider when choosing the right pest control solutionfor you. Along with a company's qualifications and treatment methods, you might also consider how long it has been in business and what the reviews are like. Finally, you'll likely want to look at the cost of services.
Below, we discuss each of these factors in more detail.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
While the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum standards of competency for pesticide applicators, licensure is taken care of at the state level. All pesticide applicators (and their supervisors) in California must be licensed by all the necessary state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
A pest control company can optionally apply for additional certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro in order to support its standards and methods. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is granted to any company that can demonstrate that its methods are more eco-friendly. These companies also need to maintain certain employee training standards.
Pest control companies can also belong to certain professional organizations. Membership in organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations is not required, but helps confirm that a company follows industry best practices. Membership in the NPMA gives companies access to resources, education, and a network of professionals with whom to discuss practices and methods.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can get some insight into a company's experience level by looking into how long it has been in operation. The company's website and local reviews can also inform you whether the company has the experience needed to deal with the specific species of pests invading your home. You can contact a representative directly to learn this information if it is not available online.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can look for reviews and recommendations on local review sites or social media, look up a company's rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or check its licensure status through the California licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
The cost of pest control can vary based on things like the type of pest being treated, the size of your house, your location, and other factors.
When considering the cost of services, you should try to determine whether a company offers free on-site estimates as part of its services. This can help determine whether the company fits into your budget. Also look into what guarantees a company offers: If the problem is not fixed, or returns, does the company provide additional treatments until the issue is satisfactorily resolved?
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, any children or pets, and the environment might influence which provider and treatment methods you choose.
Safety
You want to ensure that you understand the precautions around pesticides used around your home, for the sake of your family, your pets, and yourself. Your pest control technician should be able to supply information about any pesticides they plan to use, whether they are low toxicity or non-toxic, and (if not) what safety measures they plan to take. All pesticides (except minimum-risk ones) must be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Pest control companies looking to reduce their reliance on chemical pesticides often implement procedures such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Using IPM involves a series of steps:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and assess whether immediate action is needed.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Use a combination of biological, cultural, physical, and mechanical controls to manage the pest problem.
- Employ chemical controls only when required, and always with other solutions for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and implement additional pest control as needed.
