How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When selecting a pest control professional, there are a number of factors you can consider to be sure you choose the right one for you. Factors you might consider include qualifications and licensing, treatment methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and cost.
Below, we dive into detail on each of these factors.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
While the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum competency standards for pesticide application, licensure is taken care of at the state level. All pesticide applicators (and their supervisors) in New Jersey should be licensed by all the necessary 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 earned through trade organizations like QualityPro.
There are various professional organizations that a pest control company can belong to. A pest control company can join state-level organizations in addition to national organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). By being a member of these optional organizations, a company helps support its reputability and gains access to resources, education, and a network of other professionals with whom to compare best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
How long a pest control company has been in business can shed some light on its experience dealing with the pests that live in Montclair. Customer reviews or the company's website itself can also inform you whether it has the skills and experience needed to handle your specific pest problem. If you can't find the information you need online, contacting the company directly is a great way to learn about its areas of expertise.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can check a company's reputation using the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and social media or local review sites. You can also check with New Jersey's licensing board to verify the status of a company's license.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
For many people, cost is one of the most important factors when looking for pest control services. Cost can be influenced by factors like the type of pest being treated, the size of your house, and your location.
You can look into whether a specific 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
Keeping yourself, your family and your pets safe is an important consideration when choosing a pest control provider. You might also prefer a provider that offers eco-friendly solutions.
Safety
Ask your pest control technician if they will be using low toxicity or non-toxic pesticides—if not, ask what precautionary measures they will take. Any pesticide that presents above a minimum risk needs to be registered with the EPA. Your pest technician should provide information about all pesticides used, in addition to how safe they are around people and pets.
Treatment Methods
Many companies are using options for more environmentally friendly pest control management solutions before employing harsh pesticides.
One common way of making pest control safer and more eco-friendly is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and assess whether immediate action is needed.
- 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 along with other techniques for effective long-term pest management.
- Evaluate outcomes and continue with additional pest control as needed.
