How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When picking a pest control expert, there are several things you can consider to make sure that you're choosing the right one for you. A company's qualifications and pest treatment methods are important to consider, as are its years of experience and customer reviews. Of course, you will also want to think about cost.
Below, we discuss each of these factors in more detail.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all pesticide applicators and those that supervise them need to be certified at the state level. The EPA sets minimum standards of competency, but all pesticide applicators in South Carolina should be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Pest control companies can also obtain optional certifications like the GreenPro Service Certification. This certification is granted once a company has shown its methods to be more eco-friendly and demonstrated that it also holds itself up to certain other standards, such as up-to-date employee training. A company can also earn other certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro to further back up its practices and methods.
Pest control companies can also belong to certain professional organizations. While not mandatory, membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help verify a company's reputability. After joining an organization like the NPMA, a company receives access to resources, education, and a network of other professionals with whom to discuss best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
Typically, a company will list information like specialities and years of experience on its website. Local reviews can also tell you whether a company has experience dealing with a particular pest in your area. If you're unable to locate the information you need online, you can reach out to the company directly to get the answers to your questions.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can look for reviews and recommendations on social media or local review sites, look up a company's rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or check the status of its license through the South Carolina licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Pest control costs can vary based on things like your location, the type of pest being treated, the size of your house, and other factors.
When considering the cost of services, you should try to determine 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 look into a company's guarantees: If the problem is not resolved, or returns, will the company provide additional treatments until the problem is satisfactorily handled?
Safety and Treatment Methods
Keeping yourself, your family and your pets safe is an important consideration when choosing a pest control provider. You might also prefer one that employes eco-friendly practices.
Safety
You want to ensure that you understand the precautions around pesticides used around your house, for the sake of your family, your pets, and yourself. Your pest control technician should be able to supply information about any pesticides they plan to use, whether they are low toxicity or non-toxic, and (if not) what safety measures they have in place. All pesticides (except minimum-risk ones) need to be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Many pest control companies have begun using more natural and greener treatment methods before (or in place of) harsh chemical pesticides. Some employ a program called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and determine if immediate action is needed.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of physical, cultural, biological, and mechanical controls.
- Employ chemical controls only when required, and always in combination with other controls for effective long-term pest management.
- Observe the results and continue with additional pest control methods as needed.
Common Household Pests in Spartanburg
Not all pests are equally common around Spartanburg. Some species that you should be wary of are these:
- Snakes: Snakes prefer damp, dark, and cool areas like basements and often enter a home in search of food. While most species of snakes are harmless, this is not a risk that you want your family or pets to take.
- Ants: Whether they are smaller soil ants or larger carpenter ants, these bugs can be found in most areas of South Carolina. Carpenter ants can pose a bigger problem than their smaller counterparts because they can do damage to your home.
- Bees: Having bees around your home can be a nuisance, especially if someone in your household is allergic. Your local pest control company can help eliminate bees, and some may even have the resources to safely relocate hives.
- Spiders: Spiders usually prefer dark and damp places and are often found in basements or attics.
- Bed bugs: Bed bug infestations are often very hard to eliminate, so we recommend calling a professional as soon as possible. Bed bugs can be found throughout South Carolina, and can infest not only your bedsheets, but also other furniture and even your wallpaper.
- Mice: Telltale signs of mouse activity include chewed wires and droppings around your home. Mice are often found in attics or in areas where food is stored.
