How To Choose a Pest Control Company
Hiring the best company for you is the most important step in the pest control process. 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?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set minimum competency standards for pesticide applicators, but licensure is handled at the state level. All pesticide applicators and supervisors in North Carolina must be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
One certification that pest control companies can earn is the GreenPro Service Certification, which requires a company to show that its practices are more environmentally friendly and that its employees receive up-to-date training. QualityPro and similar trade organizations also offer additional certifications. While not required, these can help show that a company is reputable.
Pest control professionals can also hold membership in professional organizations. A pest control company can obtain membership in both state-level organizations and national organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). By being a member of these optional organizations, a company helps support its reputability and gains access to education, resources, and a network of other professionals with whom to compare best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
A company's years in business can indicate how much experience it has taking care of various pests. You can also look at its website or peruse customer reviews to decide whether it has the right kind of experience handling the type of pests you are dealing with. If this information can't be found online, getting in touch with a company representative is a great way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can browse reviews and recommendations on local review sites or social media, look up a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, or check its licensure status through the North Carolina licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is often a deciding factor when choosing a pest control company. Cost may be determined by your location, the size of your house, the type of pest being treated, and other factors.
A pest control company may offer a free on-site estimate to help you figure out if it fits into your budget. You can also look at whether it offers a guarantee of satisfaction.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your choice of pest control provider might be influenced by how environmentally friendly a provider's practicesare, as well as how safe its methods are around your family and pets.
Safety
All pesticides used by your company (except those that are classified as minimum-risk) should be registered with the EPA. Your pest control provider should be able to supply information on all the pesticides that they are using. They should inform you whether the pesticides are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not, what safety precautions will be taken.
Treatment Methods
Many companies have started offering options for more eco-friendly solutions before employing harsh pesticides.
One common method for making pest control safer and more eco-friendly is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Figure out what pests are causing the problem and determine whether immediate action is required.
- 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.
- Observe the results and provide additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Burlington
Not all pests are equally common in Burlington. Some species that you should keep an eye out for are these:
- Fleas: These pests tend to prefer warmer weather (which can make them a real nuisance in Burlington) and often get indoors by hiding in pet fur.
- Spiders: You may find spiders in your attic or other moist, dark places. Most spiders are harmless and pose no threat to humans, but you still don't want an infestation of them in your home.
- Bed bugs: Bed bugs are found throughout North Carolina, and they can lead to serious problems if left untreated. Because infestations of bed bugs can be difficult to get rid of, we recommend having professional extermination as soon as you discover the problem. These pests can infest bedsheets, wallpaper, furniture, and more.
