How To Choose a Pest Control Company
The most important step is choosing the right pest control professional for the job. You might consider a company's qualifications, methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and service prices.
Below, we discuss each factor in more detail.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains minimum competency standards for pesticide applicators, but licensure is handled at the state level. All pesticide applicators and supervisors in Virginia must be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
A pest control company can obtain optional certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro in order to verify its methods and standards. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is awarded to any company that can demonstrate that its methods are more eco-friendly. Companies that receive this certification also need to maintain certain training standards for employees.
Pest control companies can also become members of professional organizations. Holding membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations is not required, but helps show that a company is reputable. Membership in the NPMA gives companies access to education, resources, and a network of professionals with whom to discuss methods and practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
The number of years that a company has been in business can shed some light on its experience dealing with the pests that live in Burke. Online reviews or the company's own website can also help you figure out whether it has the skills and experience needed to eliminate the particular pests that are plaguing you. If the answers to your questions aren't available online, speaking with a representative is an excellent way to learn about the company's areas of expertise.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can view a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, browse reviews on social media or local review sites, or check the standing of its license via the Virginia licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is important when choosing a pest control company. Cost may be determined by the size of your house, your location, the type of pest being treated, and other factors.
Certain pest control companies offer a free on-site estimate to help you decide if it fits into your budget. You can also look at whether it offers a guarantee of satisfaction.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Safety is an important consideration when selecting a pest control professional. You might also prefer a provider who employs more natural, environmentally friendly pest control solutions.
Safety
All pesticides that will be used (except those that are classified as minimum-risk) need to be registered with the EPA. Your pest control provider should be able to provide information on every pesticide they are using. They should inform you whether these chemicals are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not, what safety precautions will be taken.
Treatment Methods
You can ask if your pest control provider will start with lower-toxicity and more eco-friendly options before trying harsher chemicals.
Many companies now use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to reduce personal or environmental risk when treating pest infestations. The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and determine if immediate action is required.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Use a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, and physical controls to manage the pest problem.
- Employ chemical controls only when absolutely necessary, and always along with other controls for effective long-term pest management.
- Observe the results and continue with additional pest control as needed.
