How To Choose a Pest Control Company
The first step is picking the best pest control professional for the job. Important factors can include a company's qualifications, its treatment methods, experience and reviews, and of course the cost of services.
Below, we explore the details of each of these factors.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
All pesticide applicators, as well as those that supervise them, need to be licensed via the appropriate New Jersey regulatory agencies. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum standards of competency, but issuing, maintaining, and revoking licensure is handled at the state level.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Pest control companies can also obtain optional certifications such as the GreenPro Service Certification. This certification is granted once a company has proven its methods to be more environmentally friendly and demonstrated that it also holds itself up to certain other standards, such as up-to-date employee training. A pest control company can also earn other certifications from QualityPro or similar trade organizations to further support its methods and practices.
Pest control companies can also obtain membership in professional organizations. Becoming a member of an organization such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or a state-level organization grants a pest control company access to resources and education, in addition to a professional network to compare best practices with. Joining organizations like these is not mandatory, but it can help indicate that a company follows industry best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
The amount of time that a pest control company has been in business can shed some light on its experience dealing with various pests. Online reviews or the company's own website can also enlighten you about whether it has the skills and experience needed to deal with your particular pests. If the answers to your questions aren't available online, speaking with a representative is an excellent way to learn about the company's areas of expertise.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can look at a company's reviews and rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), explore social media and local review sites to hear what homeowners near you think, or verify its license standing via the New Jersey licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is important when hiring a pest control company. Cost can be affected by the type of pest being treated, your location, the size of your house, and other factors.
Often, companies will 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
Safety is an important consideration when selecting a pest control provider, and you might prefer a provider who uses more natural, eco-friendly treatment methods.
Safety
You will want to understand the precautions around pesticides being used around your house, for the sake of you, your family, and your pets. Your pest control technician should provide information about any pesticides they plan to use, whether they are low toxicity or non-toxic, and (if not) what safety measures will be in place. All pesticides (except minimum-risk ones) must be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Many companies have started offering options for more environmentally friendly treatment methods before relying on harsh pesticides.
One popular way of making pest control safer and greener is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and determine whether immediate action is needed.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Use a combination of mechanical, cultural, biological, and physical controls to manage the pest problem.
- Use chemical controls only when absolutely necessary, and always along with other techniques for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and implement additional pest control as needed.
