How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When choosing a pest control company, you want to make sure that you find the right one to meet your needs. In addition to a company's qualifications and treatment methods, you might also consider how long it has been in business and what the reviews are like. Last but not least, you'll likely want to look at 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?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains minimum competency standards for pesticide applicators, but licensure is overseen at the state level. All pesticide applicators and their supervisors in California must be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Obtaining additional optional certifications can help show that a pest control company is reputable. One of these is the GreenPro Service Certification. To obtain this certification, a company must show that its methods are more environmentally friendly and that its employees receive up-to-date training. Other certifications can be obtained through QualityPro and similar trade organizations.
A pest control company can also hold membership in professional organizations. A pest control company can obtain membership in state-level organizations in addition to national organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). While not mandatory, membership in these organizations helps prove a company's reputability and gives it access to resources, education, and a network of other professionals with whom to compare best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
A company's website can tell you how long it has been in business and what type of pests it specializes in exterminating. Local reviews can also give you some insight into a company's experience dealing with specific pests. If this information isn't available online, you can try contacting the company directly.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can view 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 California licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
The cost of pest control can vary based on things like the type of pest being treated, your location, the size of your house, and other factors.
When considering the cost of services, you should confirm whether a company includes free on-site estimates as part of its services. This can inform you whether the company fits into your budget. Also take into account a company's guarantees: If the problem is not fixed, or if it returns, will the company provide additional treatment until the problem is resolved satisfactorily?
Safety and Treatment Methods
It's important to consider safety when choosing a pest control provider. You might also prefer a provider who uses more natural, environmentally friendly methods.
Safety
It's important to understand the precautions for the pesticides being used in your house, for the sake of you, your family, and your pets. Your pest control technician should provide information about all pesticides they plan on using, 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 companies have begun using more natural treatment methods before, or instead of, harsh chemical pesticides. Some employ a program called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and determine whether immediate action is required.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Use a combination of mechanical, cultural, biological, and physical controls to manage the pest problem.
- Employ chemical controls only if needed, and always with other techniques for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and implement additional pest control as needed.
