How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When choosing a pest control company, you want to be sure to find the right one for you. In addition to a company's qualifications and pest extermination methods, you may also look into how long it has been in business and what the reviews are like. Finally, you'll likely want to consider 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?
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all pesticide applicators and those that supervise them are required to be certified at the state level. The EPA does set minimum standards of competency, but all New Mexico pesticide applicators must be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
There are additional optional certifications that can help show that a pest control company is reputable. One example is the GreenPro Service Certification. To earn this certification, a company must prove that its methods are more eco-friendly and that its employees receive up-to-date training. Additional certifications can be obtained through QualityPro and similar trade organizations.
Pest control companies can also belong to professional organizations. While not required, membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help show a company's reputability. After joining an organization like the NPMA, a company receives access to education, resources, and a network of other professionals with whom to share best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can look at a company's years in business to help determine how much experience it has handling various pests in Roswell. 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, speaking with a company representative is a great way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can check a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, browse reviews on local review sites or social media, or check the standing of its license via the New Mexico licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is an important consideration when choosing a pest control company. Cost may be determined by the size of your house, the type of pest being treated, your location, and other factors.
A pest control company may 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 satisfaction guarantee.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, any children or pets, and the environment can influence the provider and the treatment methods you choose.
Safety
Make sure to ask your pest control technician if they plan to use low toxicity or non-toxic pesticides, and if not, what kind of precautionary measures they will have in place. All pesticides that are not considered minimum-risk chemicals must be registered with the EPA. Your pest technician will be able to supply you with information about all of the pesticides that they plan to use.
Treatment Methods
You can ask if your technician will begin with more natural and lower-toxicity treatment methods before trying harsher chemicals.
Many companies now use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to treat pest infestations with minimal personal or environmental risk. The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and assess whether immediate action is required.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Use a combination of physical, biological, mechanical, and cultural controls to manage the pest problem.
- Employ chemical controls only if needed, and always along with other controls for effective long-term pest management.
- Evaluate outcomes and continue with additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Roswell
Not all pests are equally prevalent around Roswell. Some species that you should be on the lookout for are these:
- Wasps: Wasps are often found in places like roof overhangs, garages, attics, and sheds. They are often difficult to exterminate, and have painful stings. Your local pest control technician can remove wasp nests from your property safely.
- Mice: Telltale signs of mice include chewed wires and droppings around your house. Mice are often found in attics or in areas where you keep food.
- Spiders: You may encounter spiders in your attic or other damp, dark areas. While most spiders are harmless and pose no threat to humans, you don't want an infestation of them in your home.
