How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When hiring a pest control company, there are a number of things you can consider to make sure you choose the right one for you. Important factors can include the company's qualifications, its treatment methods, experience and reviews, and of course the cost of services.
Below, we dive into detail on each of these factors.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
All pesticide applicators (and those who supervise them) must be certified at the state level. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum standards of competency, but any pesticide applicators working in the state of Georgia must be licensed via the necessary state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Pest control companies can optionally obtain additional certifications like the GreenPro Service Certification. This certification is granted once a company has proven that its treatment methods are more environmentally friendly and demonstrated that it also holds itself up to certain other standards, such as up-to-date training for employees. A pest control company can also earn other certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro to further support its practices and methods.
There are several professional organizations that a pest control company can belong to. Holding membership in organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations is not required, but helps verify a company's reputability. The NPMA gives companies access to resources, education, and a network of pest professionals with whom to discuss practices and methods.
Professional Experience and Specialties
How long a pest control company has been in business can shed some light on its experience dealing with pests in your area. Customer reviews or the company's website itself can also inform you whether it has the skills and experience necessary to eliminate the particular pests that are plaguing you. If you can't find the information you need online, contacting the company directly is an easy way to learn about its areas of expertise.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can look up a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, explore reviews on local review sites or social media, or check the standing of its license via the Georgia licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
For many people, cost is one of the most important factors when picking a company for pest control services. Cost can be determined by factors like your location, the type of pest being treated, and the size of your house.
You can take into consideration whether a company offers free on-site estimates (to determine if it fits in your budget), and what kind of guarantees are provided. Often, a company will guarantee that if its treatment doesn't resolve your pest problem, it will continue to come back until it does.
Safety and Treatment Methods
It's important to consider safety when deciding on a pest control company. You might also prefer a provider who employs more natural, eco-friendly methods.
Safety
Your pest technician should be using low toxicity or non-toxic pesticides when possible. If any pesticides used don't fall into one of these categories, your technician should explain what safety precautions they will put in place to protect you, your family, and your pets. Any pesticides that pose more than a minimum risk are required to be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Many companies are using options for more eco-friendly solutions before jumping into using harsh pesticides.
One common way of making pest control safer and greener is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and assess whether immediate action is needed.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, and physical controls.
- Use chemical controls only when required, and always in combination with other solutions for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and provide additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Peachtree Corners
Not all pests are equally prevalent around Peachtree Corners. Some species that you should be on the lookout for include the following:
- Ants: Ants are common in just about every part of Georgia. Large carpenter ants can be even more of a problem than normal soil ants, as they can cause structural damage to your house.
- Fleas: These pests prefer warmer weather (which can make them a real nuisance in Peachtree Corners) and often get indoors by hiding in the fur of pets.
- Wasps: Wasps are often found in spots like garages, roof overhangs, sheds, and attics. They have painful stings and are often difficult to rid yourself of. Your local pest professional can help remove wasp nests from your property safely.
- Spiders: You may find spiders in your basement, attic, or other damp, dark places. While most spiders are harmless and pose no threat to humans, you don't want a spider infestation in your house.
- Mice: If your home has a mouse infestation, you may notice droppings around your house, or things like chewed wires. Frequently, mice are found in attics or in places where food is kept.
- Bed bugs: Bed bug infestations can be very difficult to quash, so we strongly recommend calling a local exterminator as soon as possible. Bed bugs can be found throughout Georgia, and can infest not just your bedsheets, but also other furniture and even wallpaper.
