How To Choose a Pest Control Company
There are a number of things you can weigh when choosing the right pest control professionalfor you. In addition to a company's qualifications and treatment methods, you might also consider 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?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets minimum standards of competency for pesticide applicators, but licensure is taken care of at the state level. All pesticide applicators and their supervisors in New York need to be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
A pest control company can optionally apply for certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro to verify its standards and methods. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is awarded to any company that can demonstrate that its methods are more eco-friendly. A company that receives this certification also needs to maintain certain training standards for employees.
Pest control professionals can also belong to professional organizations. Companies can obtain membership in the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), or state-level organizations. NPMA membership gives companies access to resources, education, and a network of other pest control companies. While not required, membership in professional organizations helps back up a company's reputability.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can get some insight into a pest control company's experience level by looking into how long it has been in operation. Local reviews and the company's own website can also tell you whether the company has experience dealing with the specific species of pests invading your home. You can always contact the company directly to learn this information if you can't find it online.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can view a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, look for reviews on local review sites or social media, or check the standing of its license via the New York licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
For many people, cost is one of the most important factors when looking for pest control. Cost can be determined by factors like your location, the type of pest being treated, and the size of your house.
You can consider whether a particular company offers free on-site estimates (to determine if it fits in your budget), and what kind of guarantees it provides. 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
It's important to consider safety when choosing a pest control provider, and you might prefer a provider who uses more natural, eco-friendly pest control solutions.
Safety
You will want to understand the precautions for the pesticides used around your house, for the sake of you, your family, and your pets. Your pest control provider should be capable of providing information about all pesticides they intend 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
Pest control experts looking to reduce their reliance on chemical pesticides often follow practices such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Using IPM involves a series of steps:
- Identify problem pests and determine if immediate action is needed.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of mechanical, cultural, biological, and physical controls.
- Use chemical controls only when absolutely necessary, and always in combination with other controls for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and provide additional pest control as needed.
