How To Choose a Pest Control Company
The most important step in the pest control process is hiring the right company for you. You might take into consideration a company's qualifications, treatment methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and cost of services.
Below, we discuss each factor in more detail.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all pesticide applicators and their supervisors must be certified at the state level. The EPA sets minimum standards of competency, but all Georgia pesticide applicators should be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Obtaining additional optional certifications can help show that a pest control company is reputable. One of these is the GreenPro Service Certification. To receive this certification, a company must prove that its methods are more environmentally friendly and that its employees receive up-to-date training. Additional certifications can be obtained through trade organizations like QualityPro.
A pest control company can also belong to professional organizations. While not required, membership in organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help to prove a company's reputability. After joining an organization like the NPMA, a company receives access to education, resources, and a network of other professionals with whom to compare best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
Generally, a company will list information like specialities and years of experience on its website. Online reviews can also help you figure out if a company has experience dealing with a particular pest in your area. If you're unable to find the information you need online, you can contact a company representative directly to get the answers to your questions.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can view a company's reviews and rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), explore social media and local review sites to learn what other people are saying, or verify its license standing through the Georgia 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 influenced by the size of your house, your location, the type of pest being treated, and other factors.
Many companies 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 company offers a satisfaction guarantees, meaning that it will continue to treat your pest problem until it is solved.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Keeping yourself, your family and your pets safe is an important concern when selecting a pest control provider. You may also prefer one that uses eco-friendly pest management treatment methods.
Safety
You can ask your pest control expert if they plan on using low toxicity or non-toxic pesticides—if not, ask about what precautionary measures they plan to use. Any pesticide that presents above a minimum risk should be registered with the EPA. Your pest control company should provide information about all pesticides used, and how safe they are around people and pets.
Treatment Methods
Pest professionals looking to reduce their use of chemical pesticides often follow practices such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Using IPM involves a series of steps:
- Identify problem pests and determine if immediate action is required.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of biological, cultural, physical, and mechanical controls.
- Employ chemical controls only when absolutely necessary, and always with other solutions for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and implement additional pest control as needed.
