How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When picking a pest control professional, there are several things that you can consider to make sure you choose the right one for you. You might consider a company's qualifications, methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and service prices.
Below, we explore the details of each factor.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set minimum standards of competency for pesticide applicators, but licensure is taken care of at the state level. All pesticide applicators and their supervisors in Florida must be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
A pest control company can optionally apply for additional certifications from QualityPro or similar trade organizations in order to verify its standards and methods. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is awarded to any company that can demonstrate that its methods are more eco-friendly. A company that receives this certification also needs to maintain certain training standards for employees.
Pest control professionals can also obtain membership in professional organizations. Being a member of organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations is not mandatory, but helps show that a company is reputable. The NPMA gives companies access to resources, education, and a network of pest professionals with whom to discuss practices and methods.
Professional Experience and Specialties
How long a company has been in business can shed some light on its experience dealing with pests in your area. Online reviews or the company's own website can also enlighten you about whether it has the skills and experience necessary to eliminate the particular pests that are plaguing you. If you can't find the information you need online, calling a representative is an easy way to learn about the company's areas of expertise.
Reviews and Recommendations
Resources that can help you verify a company's reputation include the Better Business Bureau (BBB), social media, and local review sites. Additionally, you can confirm the status of a company's license through the Florida licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is important when hiring a pest control company. Cost can be influenced by the size of your house, the type of pest being treated, your location, and other factors.
Often, companies will offer free on-site estimates at the beginning of their process, to help you determine whether it fits into your budget. You can also ask whether a company offers a satisfaction guarantees, meaning that it will continue to treat your pest problem until it is solved.
Safety and Treatment Methods
When picking a pest control provider, you want to select one that will keep you, your family, and your pets safe. You'll likely also prefer an environmentally-conscious provider.
Safety
All pesticides (except those that are determined to be of minimal risk) need to be registered with the EPA. Your pest control technician should be able to supply 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 in place.
Treatment Methods
Pest control professionals looking to reduce their use of chemical pesticides often implement procedures such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Using IPM involves a series of steps:
- Identify problem pests and determine whether immediate action is required.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Use a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, and physical controls to manage the pest problem.
- Employ chemical controls only when absolutely necessary, and always with other controls for effective long-term pest management.
- Observe the results and continue with additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Winter Haven
Not all pests are equally pervasive in Winter Haven. Some species that you should keep an eye out for include the following:
- Ants: Ants are common in basically all of Florida. Large carpenter ants can be even more of a problem than normal soil ants, as they can cause structural damage to your home.
- Snakes: Snakes prefer cool, damp, and dark areas and often come into a home looking for food. While most species of snakes are harmless, this is not a risk that you want your family or pets to take.
- Moths: If you've been noticing holes in your clothing or linens, it's possible that you have moths in your house. Moths like dark places like closets, and are more common in warmer places (like Winter Haven).
- Mice: Telltale signs of mice include chewed wires and droppings around your home. Mice are often found in attics or in places where food is kept.
- Bed bugs: Bed bugs are found throughout Florida and 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 wallpaper, furniture, bedsheets, and more.
- Spiders: You may find spiders in your attic or other dark, damp places. Even though most species of spider are harmless to humans, you don't want an infestation of them in your house.
