How To Choose a Pest Control Company
Hiring the best company for you is the most important step in the pest control process. The qualifications of and treatment methods used by a company are important to consider, as are its years of experience and customer reviews. Of course, you will also want to consider 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 standards of competency for pesticide applicators, licensure is taken care of at the state level. All pesticide applicators (and their supervisors) in Connecticut should be licensed by all the necessary state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Pest control companies can optionally obtain additional certifications such as the GreenPro Service Certification. This certification is awarded once a company has proven its methods to be more environmentally friendly and demonstrated that it also maintains certain other standards, such as up-to-date training for employees. A company can also earn other certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro to further back up its methods and practices.
A pest control company can also hold membership in various professional organizations. Holding membership in organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations is not required, but helps show that a company is reputable. When a pest control company joins the NPMA, it gains access to resources, education, and a network of professionals with whom to discuss methods and practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can get some insight into a pest company's experience level by looking at how long it has been in operation. The company's website and local reviews can also clue you in as to whether a certain company has experience dealing with the specific species of pests that are afflicting your home. You can always contact the company directly to learn this information if it is not available online.
Reviews and Recommendations
Resources that can be used to verify a company's legitimacy include social media, local review sites, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Additionally, you can check the status of a company's license through the Connecticut licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
It's important to think about cost when hiring a pest control company. Cost can be influenced by the type of pest being treated, your location, the size of your house, and other factors.
Companies will often offer free on-site estimates before starting work, to help you decide whether it fits into your budget. You can also ask whether if your company has a satisfaction guarantee, meaning that it will continue to treat your pest problem until it is solved.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, any children or pets, and the environment can affect the provider and the treatment methods you choose.
Safety
You want to ensure that you understand the precautions for the pesticides being used in your house, for the sake of your family, your pets, and yourself. Your pest control provider should be capable of providing information about the pesticides they plan on using, whether they are low toxicity or non-toxic, and (if not) what safety measures they have in place. All pesticides (except minimum-risk ones) should be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Pest control professionals looking to reduce their reliance on chemical pesticides often follow practices such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Using IPM involves a series of steps:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and determine 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 if needed, and always in combination with other solutions for effective long-term pest management.
- Evaluate outcomes and implement additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Glastonbury
Some pests are more common than others. In Glastonbury, common pests to be wary of include the following:
- Cockroaches: It's important to take care of a cockroach infestation quickly, as they can sometimes spread diseases like salmonella. Cockroaches can be found in many places throughout Connecticut, and they prefer wetter areas like Glastonbury.
- Mice: Telltale signs of mouse activity include chewed wires and droppings around your home. Mice tend to frequent attics or areas where you keep food.
- Spiders: You may encounter spiders in your basement, attic, or other moist, dark areas. While most spiders are harmless and pose no threat to humans, you don't want an infestation of them in your home.
