How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When hiring a pest control company, you want to make sure that you find the right one for you. Along with a company's qualifications and pest extermination methods, you may also look into how long it has been in business and what the reviews are like. Finally, you'll likely want to consider 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?
Per the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all pesticide applicators and those that supervise them need to be licensed at the state level. The EPA sets minimum standards of competency, and the Pennsylvania regulatory agencies take care of the issuing, maintaining, and revoking of licenses.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Obtaining additional optional certifications can help demonstrate that a pest control company is reputable. One of these is the GreenPro Service Certification. To earn this certification, a company must show that its methods are more environmentally friendly and that its employee training is up to date. Additional certifications can be earned through trade organizations like QualityPro.
There are various professional organizations that a pest control company can belong to. While not mandatory, membership in organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help to prove a company's reputability. In the NPMA and other organizations, pest control companies have access to education, resources, and a network of professionals with whom to discuss best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can look at a company's years in business to help determine how much experience it has taking care of pests in Penn Hills. You can also explore its website or peruse customer reviews to determine whether it has adequate experience with the type of pests you are looking to get rid of. If this information is not available online, speaking with a company representative is a good way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, explore reviews on social media or local review sites, or check the standing of its license via the Pennsylvania licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Pest control costs can vary based on things like the size of your house, your location, the type of pest being treated, and other factors.
When considering the cost of services, you should first look into whether a company offers free on-site estimates as part of its process. This can help determine whether the company fits into your budget. Also take into account a company's guarantees: If the problem is not resolved, or returns, does the company provide additional treatments until the problem is resolved satisfactorily?
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, any children or pets, and the environment may influence which provider and treatment methods you choose.
Safety
Your pest control provider should be able to discuss the safety of any pesticides they plan to use. They should be able to clarify whether the pesticides are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not what safety precautions they will put in place to protect you, your family, and your pets. Any pesticides that pose greater than a minimum risk must be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Companies often start with more eco-friendly solutions before using pesticides, using a technique called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). When using IPM, the following steps are taken:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and assess whether immediate action is required.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of physical, cultural, biological, and mechanical controls.
- Use chemical controls only if needed, and always along with other techniques for effective long-term pest management.
- Evaluate outcomes and continue with additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Penn Hills
Some pests are more common than others. In Penn Hills, common pests to be on the lookout for include the following:
- Beetles: Across the U.S. and in Penn Hills, there are a diverse array of beetles that could create problems. Many beetles are harmless, but others can cause damage to your home by eating wood, carpeting, and more.
- Cockroaches: It's important to quickly stop a cockroach infestation, as they can carry diseases such as salmonella. Cockroaches are found in many places throughout Pennsylvania, and they prefer wetter areas.
- Flies: Flies can be a year-round nuisance in your Penn Hills home, but they may be especially common during the warmer months. You might find flies around sinks or in places where food is kept.
- Spiders: These pests prefer dark and moist places and are often found in basements or attics.
- Bed bugs: Bed bug infestations are often very difficult to get rid of, so we recommend calling a professional as soon as possible. Bed bugs are found throughout Pennsylvania, and can infest not just your bedsheets, but also other furniture and even wallpaper.
