How To Choose a Pest Control Company
Hiring the best company for you is the most important step in the pest control process. Things you may consider include licensing and qualifications, treatment methods, years of experience, customer reviews, and cost.
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, as well as those that supervise them, must be licensed via the appropriate Texas regulatory agencies. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets minimum standards of competency, but issuing, maintaining, and revoking licensure is handled at the state level.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
Pest control companies also have the option to 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 maintains 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 back up its methods and practices.
Pest control companies can also belong to various professional organizations. 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. When a pest control company joins the NPMA, it gains access to education, resources, and a network of other professionals with whom to discuss practices and methods.
Professional Experience and Specialties
You can gain some insight into a company's level of experience by seeing how many years it has been in operation. Local reviews and the company's own website can also let you know whether the company has experience dealing with the specific species of pests invading your home. You can always contact a representative directly to learn this information if you can't find it online.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can look at a company's reviews and rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), check out social media and local review sites to find out what others in your area have to say, or verify its license standing via the Texas licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is important when picking a pest control company. Cost may be determined by the type of pest being treated, your location, the size of your house, and other factors.
Certain pest control companies offer a free on-site estimate to help you match services to your budget. You can also see if it offers a guarantee of satisfaction.
Safety and Treatment Methods
When it comes to picking a pest control provider, you want to select one that will keep you, your family, and your pets safe. You'll likely also prefer an environmentally-conscious provider.
Safety
Your pest control technician should be able to discuss the safety of any pesticides that will be used in your home. They should be able to answer questions about whether the pesticides are low toxicity or non-toxic; if they are not, they should explain what safety precautions will be in place to protect you, your family, and your pets. Pesticides that pose greater than a minimum risk should be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Many companies are using options for more environmentally friendly pest control techniques before employing harsh pesticides.
One popular method for making pest control safer and greener is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). 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.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of mechanical, cultural, biological, and physical controls.
- Employ chemical controls only when required, and always in combination with other solutions for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and continue with additional pest control as needed.
