How To Choose a Pest Control Company
Hiring the best company for you is the most important step in the pest control process. In addition to a company's qualifications and treatment methods, you may also look into how long it has been in business and what the reviews look like. Finally, you'll likely want to consider 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?
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 those who supervise them) in Michigan need to be licensed by all the necessary state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Pest control companies can earn the GreenPro Service Certification, which requires that a company show that its practices are more eco-friendly and that its employees receive up-to-date training. QualityPro and similar trade organizations also offer additional certifications. While not required, these can help show that a company is reputable.
Pest control companies can also belong to various professional organizations. While not required, membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help to prove a company's reputability. In the NPMA and other organizations, pest control companies have access to education, resources, and a network of professionals with whom to discuss best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
A company's years in business can indicate how much experience it has handling various pests. You can also browse its website or look through customer reviews to determine whether it has adequate experience with the species of pests you are dealing with. If this information can't be found online, contacting a representative directly is a good way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can check a company's reputation using social media or local review sites as well as the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can also check with Michigan's licensing board to verify the status of a company's license.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
It's important to think about cost when hiring a pest control company. Cost can be affected by the type of pest being treated, the size of your house, your location, and other factors.
Companies will often 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 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
Keeping yourself, your family and your pets safe is an important concern when selecting a pest control provider. You may also prefer a provider that employes eco-friendly practices.
Safety
All pesticides that will be used (except those that are classified as minimum-risk) should be registered with the EPA. Your pest control expert should provide you with information on all the pesticides that they are using. They should inform you whether these chemicals are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not, what safety precautions will be taken.
Treatment Methods
It is now common for companies to begin with more eco-friendly treatment options before using pesticides, following a technique called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). When using IPM, the following steps are taken:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and determine whether immediate action is required.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of mechanical, cultural, biological, and physical controls.
- Employ chemical controls only when absolutely necessary, and always with other methods for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and provide additional pest control as needed.
