How To Choose a Pest Control Company
There are a number of things you can take into consideration when choosing the best pest control treatment methodfor you. You might consider a company's qualifications, treatment methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and price of services.
Below, we discuss each factor in more detail.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
Per the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all pesticide applicators and those that supervise them must be certified at the state level. The EPA sets minimum standards of competency, but all New Jersey pesticide applicators should be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
There are additional optional certifications that can help demonstrate that a pest control company is reputable. One of these is the GreenPro Service Certification. To earn this certification, a company must prove that its methods are more environmentally friendly and that its employees receive up-to-date training. Other various certifications can be earned through QualityPro and similar trade organizations.
Pest control companies can also belong to certain professional organizations. While not mandatory, 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 other professionals with whom to compare best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can look at a company's years in business to help determine how much experience it has taking care of 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 is not available online, contacting a representative directly is a good way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can read reviews and recommendations on social media or local review sites, look up a company's rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or check the status of its license through the New Jersey licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
It's important to think about cost when hiring a pest control company. Cost can be affected by your location, the type of pest being treated, the size of your house, and other factors.
Many companies 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 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
When picking a pest control provider, you want to choose one that will keep you, your family, and your pets safe. You'll likely also prefer an environmentally-conscious provider.
Safety
You should ask your pest control expert if the chemicals they're using are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not, what sort of precautionary measures they plan to take. Any pesticides that are not minimum-risk chemicals should be registered with the EPA. Your pest control provider will be able to provide you with information about all chemicals they plan on using.
Treatment Methods
You can ask if your pest control expert will start with more natural and lower-toxicity options before using harsher chemicals.
Many companies are now using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to treat pest infestations with minimal personal or environmental risk. The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and assess whether immediate action is required.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, and physical controls.
- Employ chemical controls only when required, and always in combination with other methods for effective long-term pest management.
- Observe the results and continue with additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Egg Harbor
Certain pests are seen more commonly in Egg Harbor, and these are the ones you should keep an eye out for. Some of these include the following:
- Ants: Whether they are smaller soil ants or larger carpenter ants, these pests can be found in most areas of New Jersey. Carpenter ants can pose a more urgent issue than their smaller counterparts by causing damage to your house.
- Mosquitoes: A mosquito infestation is more likely if your home is in a wetter area. They're also more common during the warmer months. Mosquitoes can be more than just annoying—they can cause itchy bites and even spread diseases.
- Mice: If you have a mouse infestation, you might start noticing droppings or things like chewed wires. Frequently, mice are found in attics or in places where food is stored.
- Spiders: These pests prefer dark and moist places and are often found in basements or attics.
