How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When choosing a pest control professional, there are a number of things you can consider to be sure that you're choosing the best one for you. Important decision-making factors can include a 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?
All pesticide applicators (and those who supervise them) must be certified at the state level. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum standards of competency, but all pesticide applicators working in the state of Florida should be licensed via 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 environmentally friendly and that its employee training is up to date. QualityPro and similar trade organizations also offer other certifications. While not required, these can help show that a pest control company is reputable.
Pest control companies can also become members of various professional organizations. While not required, 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 professionals with whom to share best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can look at a company's years in business to help determine how much experience it has handling pests in Clearwater. You can also look at its website or read customer reviews to decide whether it has the right kind of experience handling the type of pests you are looking to get rid of. If this information can't be found online, speaking with a company representative is a great way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can read reviews and recommendations on social media or local review sites, view a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, or check the status of its license through the Florida licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is probably high on your list of priorities when hiring someone for pest control. Cost can be affected by the type of pest being treated, your location, the size of your house, and other factors.
Often, companies will offer free on-site estimates as part of their process, to help you determine whether it fits into your budget. You can also ask whether a provider offers a satisfaction guarantee, meaning that it will continue to treat your pest problem until it is solved.
Safety and Treatment Methods
When it comes to choosing a pest control provider, you want to choose one that will keep you, your family, and your pets safe. You may also prefer an environmentally-conscious provider.
Safety
Your pest control expert should be able to discuss the safety of any pesticides that they're going to use. They should be able to explain whether the pesticides are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not what safety precautions they plan to use to protect you, your family, and your pets. Any pesticides that pose greater than a minimum risk are required to be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Many pest control companies are making the switch to using more natural and environmentally friendly treatment methods before (or instead of) harsh chemical pesticides. Some follow a program called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and determine if immediate action is needed.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Use a combination of physical, cultural, biological, and mechanical controls to manage the pest problem.
- Employ chemical controls only when required, and always with other methods for effective long-term pest control management.
- Evaluate outcomes and provide additional pest control methods as needed.
