How To Choose a Pest Control Company
There are several factors you can take into consideration when selecting the best pest control solutionfor you. Important decision-making factors can include the company's qualifications, its treatment methods, experience and reviews, and of course 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?
All pesticide applicators (and those that supervise them) must be certified at the state level. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum standards of competency, but all pesticide applicators working in the state of Vermont should be licensed via the necessary state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Pest control companies also have the option to obtain additional certifications like the GreenPro Service Certification. This certification is given 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 support its practices and methods.
Pest control companies can also become members of certain professional organizations. Being a member of organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations is not required, but helps confirm that a company follows industry best practices. The NPMA gives companies access to resources, education, and a network of professionals with whom to discuss practices and methods.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can look at a pest control company's years in business to help determine how much experience it has taking care of pests in your area. You can also look at its website or look through customer reviews to figure out whether it has experience eliminating the type of pests you are dealing with. If you cannot find this information online, calling the company directly is a good way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can view a company's rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), read reviews on social media or local review sites, or check the standing of its license via the Vermont licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
For many people, cost is one of the main deciding factors when looking for pest control services. Cost can be influenced by factors like the size of your house, the type of pest being treated, and your location.
You can consider whether a specific company offers free on-site estimates (to determine if it fits in your budget), and what sort of guarantees are provided. Often, a company will guarantee that if your pest problem isn't fixed by its treatment, it will continue to treat until it is.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Safety is an important consideration when selecting a pest control professional, and you might prefer a provider who uses more natural, eco-friendly treatment methods.
Safety
All pesticides that will be used (except those that are determined to be of minimal risk) need to be registered with the EPA. Your pest control expert should be able to supply information on all the pesticides that they plan to use. They should inform you whether these chemicals are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not, what safety precautions will be in place.
Treatment Methods
It is now common for companies to begin with more eco-friendly treatment options before using pesticides, using a framework called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). When using IPM, the following steps are taken:
- Identify problem pests and determine if immediate action is needed.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Use a combination of mechanical, physical, biological, and cultural controls to manage the pest problem.
- Use chemical controls only when required, and always along with other techniques for effective long-term pest management.
- Evaluate outcomes and provide additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Burlington
You might encounter some pests more often in Burlington. Some to keep an eye out for include these:
- Fleas: Fleas tend to prefer warmer weather and often get indoors by hiding in the fur of pets.
- Bed bugs: Infestations of bed bugs are often very hard to get rid of, so we strongly recommend calling a local exterminator as soon as possible. Bed bugs are found throughout Vermont, and can infest not just your bedsheets, but also other furniture and even wallpaper.
- Mice: If you have a mouse infestation, you might start noticing droppings around your house, or things like chewed wires. Frequently, mice are found in attics or in places where food is stored.
- Spiders: Spiders usually prefer dark and moist places and are commonly found in basements or attics.
