How To Choose a Pest Control Company
Choosing the best pest control solution for you is key. Important factors include the company's qualifications, its treatment methods, experience and reviews, and of course 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, licensing is handled at the state level. All pesticide applicators (and those who supervise them) in Connecticut must be licensed by all the necessary state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Pest control companies can earn the GreenPro Service Certification, which requires a company to show that its practices are more environmentally friendly and that its employee training is up to date. Trade organizations such as QualityPro offer additional certifications. These are not required, but can help demonstrate that a pest control company is reputable.
A pest control company can also belong to professional organizations. While not mandatory, membership in organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help show a company's reputability. After joining an organization like the NPMA, a company receives access to education, resources, and a network of professionals with whom to share best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can gain some insight into a pest control company's level of experience by seeing how many years it has been in business. Local reviews and the company's own website can also clue you in as to whether a certain company has experience dealing with the specific species of pests invading your home. You can contact the company directly to learn this information if you can't find it online.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, look for reviews on social media or local review sites, or check the standing of its license via the Connecticut 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, the size of your house, your location, and other factors.
A pest control company may offer a free on-site estimate to help you decide if it fits into your budget. You can also check to see if it offers a satisfaction guarantee.
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 pest control services.
Safety
All pesticides that will be used (except those that are determined to be of minimal risk) should be registered with the EPA. Your pest control technician should provide you with information on each pesticide they will be using. They should be able to tell you whether these chemicals are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not, what safety precautions will be taken.
Treatment Methods
You can ask if your pest control expert will begin with eco-friendly and lower-toxicity options before moving on to harsher chemicals.
Many companies are now using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to eliminate pests while reducing personal and environmental risks. The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Identify problem pests and determine if immediate action is needed.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of physical, cultural, biological, and mechanical controls.
- Use chemical controls only when required, and always with other controls for effective long-term pest management.
- Observe the results and provide additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in East Hartford
Certain pests are more prevalent in East Hartford, and these pests are the ones to keep watch for. Some of these include the following:
- Ants: Whether they are larger carpenter ants or smaller soils ants, these bugs are found in most areas of Connecticut. Carpenter ants can pose a bigger problem than their smaller counterparts because they can do damage to your home.
- Bed bugs: Bed bugs may be found throughout Connecticut, and they can cause big problems if left untreated. Because bed bug infestations are difficult to get rid of, we recommend getting professional extermination as soon as you discover the problem. These pests can infest bedsheets, furniture, wallpaper, and more.
- Mice: If there are mice in your home, you may start noticing droppings around your house, or things like chewed wires. If your home has mice, they may be found in places where food is kept or in attics.
