How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When selecting a pest control professional, there are several factors you can consider to be sure you choose the right one for you. The qualifications of and treatment methods used by a company are important to consider, as well as its years of experience and what other customers have said. Of course, you also want to consider cost.
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) has established minimum standards of competency for pesticide applicators, but licensure is regulated at the state level. All pesticide applicators and supervisors in Ohio must be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
One optional certification that might be worth looking for is the GreenPro Service Certification. To earn this certification, a pest control company needs to both demonstrate that its practices are more environmentally friendly and maintain certain technician training standards. Companies can obtain other certifications from QualityPro or similar trade organizations to further back up their work.
There are certain professional organizations that pest control companies can be members of. Companies can obtain membership in the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), or state-level organizations. Membership in the NPMA gives companies access to education, resources, and a network of other pest professionals. While not required, membership in professional organizations helps back up a company's reputability.
Professional Experience and Specialties
How long a company has been in business can shed some light on its experience dealing with the pests that live in Jackson. Online reviews or the company's website itself can also enlighten you about whether it has the skills and experience necessary to deal with your particular pests. If you can't find the information you need online, reaching out to the company directly is an easy way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can look up a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, read reviews on local review sites or social media, or check the standing of its license via the Ohio licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is important when picking a pest control company. Cost may be determined by the size of your house, the type of pest being treated, your location, and other factors.
Certain pest control companies offer a free on-site estimate to help you match services to your budget. You can also look at whether it offers a satisfaction guarantee.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, any children or pets, and the environment can influence the provider and the treatment methods you choose.
Safety
Ask your pest control expert if they are going to use low toxicity or non-toxic pesticides—if not, ask what precautionary measures will be in place. Any pesticide that poses greater than minimum risk must be registered with the EPA. Your pest technician should be able to provide information about all of the pesticides that will be used in your home, and how safe they are around people and pets.
Treatment Methods
Many companies are making the switch to using more natural and environmentally friendly treatment methods before, or in place of, harsh chemical pesticides. Some follow a program called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Identify problem pests and assess whether 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.
- Employ chemical controls only when required, and always along with other controls for effective long-term pest control management.
- Observe the results and provide additional pest control services as needed.
Common Household Pests in Jackson
In Jackson, there are some pests that are more common than others. This list includes the following:
- Bees: Your local pest control professional can help get rid of bees around your home (some even are able to safely relocate hives). You might be particularly keen to have bees' nests removed if there is someone in your household who is allergic.
- Spiders: You may encounter spiders in your basement, attic, or other dark, damp places. Most spiders are harmless and pose no threat to humans, but you still don't want a spider infestation in your home.
- Bed bugs: Bed bugs can be found throughout Ohio and can cause major problems if left untreated. Because infestations of bed bugs can be difficult to get rid of, we recommend hiring a professional exterminator as soon as you discover the problem. These pests can infest furniture, wallpaper, bedsheets, and more.
- Mice: If there are mice in your home, you may start noticing droppings around your house, or things like chewed wires. Frequently, mice are found in attics or in places where food is kept.
