How To Choose a Pest Control Company
The most important step in the pest control process is hiring the right company for you. You might consider a pest control company's qualifications and methods of treatment in addition to its years of experience and customer reviews. And of course, there's the cost of services to consider.
Below, we discuss each of these factors in more detail.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
All pesticide applicators, as well as those that supervise them, must be licensed via the appropriate New York regulatory agencies. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets minimum standards of competency, but providing, maintaining, and revoking licensure is handled at the state level.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
One certification that pest control companies can earn is the GreenPro Service Certification, which requires a company to show that its practices are more environmentally friendly and that its employee training is up to date. QualityPro and similar trade organizations also offer additional certifications. While not required, these can help demonstrate that a company is reputable.
A pest control company can also obtain membership in 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 education, resources, and a network of other professionals with whom to discuss best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can get some insight into a pest company's level of pest management experience by seeing how long it has been in operation. The company's website and local reviews can also let you know whether the company has experience dealing with the specific species of pests invading your home. You can contact the company directly to learn this information if you can't find it online.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can view a company's reviews and rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), check out social media and local review sites to see what homeowners near you think, or verify its license standing via the New York licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is an important consideration when choosing a pest control company. Cost may be determined by your location, the size of your house, the type of pest being treated, and other factors.
Certain pest control companies offer a free on-site estimate to help you match services to your budget. You can also see if it offers a satisfaction guarantee.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, any children or pets, and the environment can affect the provider and the treatment methods you choose.
Safety
All pesticides used by your company (except those that are classified as minimum-risk) should be registered with the EPA. Your pest control provider should supply information on each pesticide they will be using. They should be able to tell you whether the pesticides are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not, what safety precautions will be in place.
Treatment Methods
You can ask if your pest control expert will start with more natural and lower-toxicity methods before using harsher chemicals.
Many companies have started to use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to treat pest infestations with minimal personal or environmental risk. 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.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of biological, cultural, physical, and mechanical controls.
- Employ chemical controls only if needed, and always along with other methods for effective long-term pest management.
- Observe the results and provide additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Albany
Some pests are more prevalent in Albany, and these are the ones you should keep watch for. Some of these include the following:
- Flies: You may see flies around sinks or in places where food is kept. Flies might get into your house in Albany throughout the year, but they're particularly common during warmer months.
- Ants: Whether smaller soil ants or larger carpenter ants, these bugs can be found in most areas of New York. Carpenter ants can pose a more urgent issue than their smaller counterparts because they can do damage to your home.
- Spiders: Spiders usually prefer dark and moist places and are often found in basements or attics.
- Mice: Common signs of mice include chewed wires and droppings around your home. Mice are commonly found in attics or in places where you keep food.
- Bed bugs: Bed bug infestations can be very hard to eliminate, so we strongly recommend calling a professional as soon as possible. Bed bugs can be found throughout New York, and can infest not only your bedsheets, but also other furniture and even your wallpaper.
