How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When hiring a pest control professional, there are a number of things that you can consider to make sure you choose the best one for you. In addition to a company's qualifications and pest extermination methods, you may 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?
While the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets the minimum competency standards for pesticide applicators, licensing is taken care of at the state level. All pesticide applicators (and their supervisors) in South Carolina should be licensed by all the necessary state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
A pest control company can optionally apply for additional certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro to verify its methods and standards. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is granted to any company that can demonstrate that its methods are more eco-friendly. Companies that receive this certification also need to maintain certain employee training standards.
There are certain professional organizations that a pest control company can belong to. Holding membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations is not required, but helps confirm that a company follows industry best practices. Membership in the NPMA gives companies access to resources, education, and a network of pest professionals with whom to discuss methods and practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
In general, a company will list information like its years of experience and specialities on its website. Local reviews can also inform you as to whether a company has experience dealing with a specific pest. If you're unable to locate the information you need online, you can reach out to the company directly to get your questions answered.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can view a company's rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), look for reviews on local review sites or social media, or check the standing of its license via the South Carolina licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
For many people, cost is one of the most important factors when looking for pest control. Cost can be influenced by factors like your location, the size of your house, and the type of pest being treated.
You can think about whether a company offers free on-site estimates (to determine if it fits your budget), and what kind of guarantees are provided. Often, a company will guarantee that if your pest problem isn't fixed by its treatment, it will continue to treat until it is.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, your children, your pets, and the environment might affect which provider and treatment methods you choose.
Safety
You want to ensure that you understand the precautions around pesticides being used around your home, for the sake of your family, your pets, and yourself. Your pest control expert should provide information about the pesticides they plan to use, whether they are low toxicity or non-toxic, and (if not) what safety measures will be in place. All pesticides (except minimum-risk ones) should be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Many companies are now exploring greener and cleaner pest control solutions that can be used before (or instead of) chemical pesticides. Many follow the practice of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which goes as follows:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and assess whether immediate action is needed.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Use a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, and physical controls to manage the pest problem.
- Use chemical controls only when required, and always in combination with other methods for effective long-term pest management.
- Evaluate outcomes and continue with additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Charleston
Not all pests are equally prevalent in Charleston. Some species that you should keep an eye out for are these:
- Termites: If you don't promptly deal with a termite infestation, they could cause hundreds or thousands of dollars in damage. Termites often enter your home via nearby piles of rotting wood, firewood, or mulch.
- Cockroaches: Cockroaches can be found throughout South Carolina, though they prefer wetter areas. This can make them an even bigger problem in Charleston. Cockroaches might get into your house through small cracks, and they can bring in diseases like salmonella.
- Mice: Some common signs of mouse activity include chewed wires and droppings around your house. Frequently, mice can be found in attics or in areas where food is stored.
- Bed bugs: Bed bug infestations can be very hard to quash, so we strongly recommend calling a local exterminator as soon as possible. Bed bugs are found throughout South Carolina, and can infest not only your bedsheets, but also other furniture and even your wallpaper.
- Spiders: These pests prefer dark and damp places and are often found in attics.
