How To Choose a Pest Control Company
There are a number of factors you can weigh when choosing the right pest control professionalfor you. Things you may consider include licensing and qualifications, treatment methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and cost.
Below, we dive into detail on each of these factors.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
While the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum competency standards for pesticide applicators, licensure is taken care of at the state level. All pesticide applicators (and those who supervise them) in California must be licensed by all the necessary state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
One certification that pest control companies can earn is the GreenPro Service Certification, which requires a company to show that its practices are more eco-friendly and that its employee training is up to date. QualityPro and similar trade organizations also offer other certifications. These are not required, but can help demonstrate that a company is reputable.
Pest control companies can also belong to various professional organizations. While not required, membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help to prove a company's reputability. Organizations like the NPMA provide access to resources, education, and a network of professionals with whom to share best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
A company's years in business can indicate how much experience it has dealing with pests in Tustin. You can also browse its website or look through customer reviews to figure out whether it has experience eliminating the type of pests you are looking to get rid of. If this information can't be found online, calling the company directly is a good way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can view a company's rating and reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), check out local review sites and social media to hear 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.
A pest control company may offer a free on-site estimate to help you match services to your budget. You can also see if it offers a guarantee of satisfaction.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, your children, your pets, and the environment may affect which provider and treatment methods you choose.
Safety
Your pest control provider should use pesticides that are low toxicity or non-toxic whenever possible. If they plan to use pesticides that don't fit into one of these categories, your technician should explain what safety precautions they will put in place to protect you, your family, and your pets. Pesticides that pose more than a minimum risk must be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Many companies have started offering options for more eco-friendly solutions before employing harsh pesticides.
One popular way of making pest control safer and greener is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and determine 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 when absolutely necessary, and always in combination with other methods for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and continue with additional pest control as needed.
