How To Choose a Pest Control Company
It's important to choose the right pest control treatment methodfor you. Along with a company's qualifications and pest extermination methods, you might also look into how long it has been in business and what the reviews look like. Last but not least, you'll likely want to look at 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?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains minimum standards of competency for pesticide applicators, but licensing is regulated at the state level. All pesticide applicators and their supervisors in North Dakota must be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
A pest control company can receive optional certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro to back up its standards and methods. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is given when a company can demonstrate that its methods are more environmentally friendly. These companies also need to maintain certain employee training standards.
Pest control companies can also become members of professional organizations. Pest control companies can join both state-level organizations and national organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). While not mandatory, membership in these organizations helps prove a company's reputability and gives it access to resources, education, and a network of other professionals to compare best practices with.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can get some insight into a pest control company's experience level by finding out how long it has been in operation. Local reviews and the company's own website can also let you know whether a company has the experience needed to deal with the specific species of pests invading your home. You can contact a representative 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 local review sites and social media to learn what others in your area have to say, or verify its license standing via the North Dakota licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is important when choosing a pest control company. Cost may be determined by the type of pest being treated, your location, the size of your house, and other factors.
Certain pest control companies offer a free on-site estimate to help you figure out if it fits into your budget. You can also check to see if it offers a satisfaction guarantee.
Safety and Treatment Methods
It's important to consider safety when deciding on a pest control provider, and you might prefer a provider who employs more natural, environmentally friendly pest control management.
Safety
Your pest technician should be using pesticides that are low toxicity or non-toxic any time they can. If any pesticides used don't fall into one of these categories, your technician should explain what safety precautions will be in place to protect your family, your pets, and you. Pesticides that pose more than a minimum risk need to be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Organizations looking to reduce their use of chemical pesticides often implement procedures such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Using IPM involves a series of steps:
- Identify problem pests and determine if immediate action is required.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Use a combination of physical, cultural, biological, and mechanical controls to manage the pest problem.
- Use chemical controls only when required, and always in combination with other methods for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and implement additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in West Fargo
Certain pests are seen more commonly in West Fargo, and these are the ones you should keep watch for. Some of these include the following:
- Moths: If you've started finding holes in your clothing or linens, it's possible that you have moths in your house. Moths are often found in dark places like closets, and are more common in warmer places.
- Mice: If your home has a mouse infestation, you might notice droppings or things like chewed wires. If your home has mice, they may be found in attics or in places where food is kept.
- Bed bugs: Bed bugs may be found throughout North Dakota and can lead to major problems if left untreated. Because bed bug infestations are often difficult to get rid of, we recommend having professional extermination as soon as you discover the problem. These pests can infest furniture, bedsheets, wallpaper, and more.
- Spiders: You may find spiders in your basement, attic, or other damp, dark areas. Even though most species of spider are harmless to humans, you don't want an infestation of them in your home.
