How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When selecting a pest control expert, there are a number of things that you can consider to be sure that you're choosing the right one for you. You may take into consideration a company's qualifications, methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and service prices.
Below, we dive into detail on each factor.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
All pesticide applicators (and those that supervise them) need to be certified at the state level. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets minimum standards of competency, but any pesticide applicators working in the state of Illinois should be licensed via the necessary 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 support its standards and methods. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is given when a company can demonstrate that its methods are more eco-friendly. A company that receives this certification also needs to maintain certain training standards for employees.
There are certain professional organizations in which pest control companies can hold membership. Being a member of 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 other 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 into how many years it has been in operation. The company's website and local reviews can also let you know whether a company has experience dealing with the specific species of pests invading your home. You can always contact the company directly to learn this information if it is not available online.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can look up a company's reviews and rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), read local review sites and social media to find out what others in your area have to say, or verify its license standing via the Illinois licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
For many people, cost is one of the main deciding factors when looking for pest control services. Cost can be influenced by factors like the size of your house, your location, and the type of pest being treated.
You can think about whether a particular company offers free on-site estimates (to determine if it fits your budget), and what sort of guarantees are provided. Often, a company will guarantee that if its treatment doesn't resolve your pest problem, it will continue to come back until it does.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Safety is an important consideration when selecting a pest control expert, and you might prefer a provider who uses more natural, environmentally friendly methods.
Safety
Your pest control technician should be able to discuss the safety of all pesticides they plan to use. They should be able to clarify whether the pesticides are low toxicity or non-toxic; if they are not, they should explain what safety precautions will be in place to protect you, your family, and your pets. Any pesticides that pose above a minimum risk need to be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Companies often start with more eco-friendly solutions before employing pesticides, following a technique called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). When using IPM, the following steps are taken:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and determine whether immediate action is needed.
- 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 required, and always along with other solutions for effective long-term pest management.
- Evaluate outcomes and provide additional pest control as needed.
