How to Choose the Best Pest Control Company
Key Factors in Selecting Quality Pest Control
Selecting a pest control company is an important decision. After all, you are inviting someone into your home to apply chemicals and deal with potentially harmful pests. Choosing the right company ensures the job will be done safely, effectively, and by trained professionals.
When researching pest control providers, keep the following criteria in mind:
1. Licensing and Certification
Verify the company holds a current Pest Management Technician License issued by the Department of Health in your state. Individual pros should also carry a PMT Licence confirming they’ve passed exams demonstrating competence.
Firms belong to industry organisations like the Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (AEPMA) which require ongoing professional development. Members strictly adhere to standards and codes of practice.
Seek companies displaying credentials like:
- AEPMA membership
- International Pest Managers Accreditation Scheme (IPMAS) for business practices
- IPMAS Green Pro certification for environmental responsibility
- Common codes of practice such as AS 3660.2 for termite management
These assure you the business and its operators follow regulations, training requirements, and service standards.
2. Warranty
A guarantee for a specific amount of time gives peace of mind that the company stands behind its work. Many pest control companies provide a 30-90 day warranty or more for their services.
3. Insurance
The company should also carry general liability insurance and workers compensation for protection. This covers any pest control experts that may get injured on your property.
4. Experience
An established company with years or decades of experience has proven systems that work. They are familiar with local pests, codes, and have studied pest control methods to determine what works best in your area.
5. Free Quotes
Reputable companies provide detailed quotes beforehand listing exactly what they’ll do, what products they’ll use, and what results you can expect. Beware of extremely low cost quotes that may result in cutting corners.
6. Services Offered
A full-service company offers effective solutions for a wide range of common pests:
- Cockroaches
- Ants
- Spiders
- Rodents
- Bed bugs
- Fleas and ticks
- Lawn pests like mosquitoes
- Wildlife removal
- Termite control
They have expertise across residential, commercial, and industrial sites.
7. Chemicals Used
Inquire about the types of treatments and solutions used. Many companies offer both traditional pesticides and natural or “green” options. Know their risks and benefits before they are applied in your home.
Eco-friendly, non-toxic methods may take longer to work but are safer for children and pets. Make sure the technicians clearly explain what they’ll be putting down.
8. Safe Application Practices
A reputable pest control company follows EPA regulations and standards for safe pesticide usage around people, pets, and food surfaces. This includes posting warning signs, securing substance, and returning to clean up.
Ask about their methods and equipment. Do they use bait stations or cracks and crevice sealing for targeted treatment rather than broad spraying?
9. Referrals
Nothing provides better insight into a company’s quality of service than talking to past clients. Ask for recent references in your neighborhood and call a few to ask if they were satisfied with the service, results, and professionalism. Online reviews can also help identify top-rated companies.
By following these guide, you can find the right pest control service provider for your situation. Prioritise licencing, experience, track record, safe methods, guarantees, and customer reviews. A licensed local company helps ensure the job will be done right the first time.
FAQ
How much does professional pest control cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of your home, type of pests being treated, and how many follow-up visits are included. Expect to pay $100-$250 for initial residential treatment, not including extras like wildlife removal. Get quotes from 3-4 highly rated companies in your area.
When is the best time to contact pest control?
The best times are early spring and fall, when you first notice more bugs coming back. Getting preventative treatments done before big pest infestations start will work better. If you already see a major pest issue, call for help right away so it doesn’t become worse.
What should I do to get ready for the visit?
Follow any directions the company provides. Normally you’ll need to remove pets, cover fish tanks, clear access along baseboards and vents, and take out food, dishes and clutter from the areas getting treated. Point out any spots where you’ve seen a lot of unwanted guests to the technician.
Should I stay inside during the appointment?
It’s recommended you leave the house while they apply pesticides. Being exposed can be unsafe. Many states make owners vacate the property by law when treatments happen. Ask what rules or safety steps to follow before your visit date.
When will I notice a difference after service?
You might see less bugs right after treatment plan, but it usually takes 2-3 weeks to see the full results. If activity doesn’t go down in a month, call the company. How fast products work depends on finding and targeting the right areas harboring pests at the start.
In conclusion, taking some time to choose a licensed, experienced pest control company with a good reputation is important. Following these guide helps ensure you get effective and safe integrated pest management from qualified technicians. Consider preventative treatments during peak seasons, prepare your property before visits, and allow solutions enough time to work for best results.
