How to Choose the Best Pest Control Company

Tips for Choosing the Right Pest Control Service

Selecting a pest control company is an important decision. After all, you are letting strangers into your home and trusting them to get rid of pest issues safely and effectively. With so many options to choose from, how do you decide which company is the best fit for your needs? This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a pest control service.

1. Check Licensing and Certifications

The first thing you should look for is proper licensing and certification. Reputable pest control companies should have a valid license for operating in your state. They should also have technicians who are certified in areas like fumigation, termite treatment, or wildlife removal. This shows they have received accredited training and passed exams to legally and safely provide certain services. Steer clear of uninsured companies.

2. Look for a Service Guarantee or Warranty

A trustworthy pest company will guarantee their work. Many give 30 to 90 day warranties in case you need more treatments. Termite service contracts can run 1 to 10 years to cover future damage. Watch for vague promises, all guarantees should be written clearly.

3. Verify Insurance Coverage

In addition to practitioner certification, the company should carry general liability insurance and damage assurance in case of accidents on your property. Ask to see proof of policies, don’t just take their word for it. If one of their technicians gets injured on your place, you could be held responsible without proper cover.

4. Check Years in Business and Experience

An established company with 5+ years (or more) extensive experience will likely have seen and treated every pest problem under the sun. They’ll know how to identify pests, inspect properly, choose the right treatment methods, and prevent future infestations. An experienced company has a proven track record and the knowledge to handle any pest situation effectively.

5. Get Free Quotes

Reputable companies should offer free on-site assessments and quotes before starting any work. Steer clear of high pressure sales tactics. A good pest controller will thoroughly inspect your home, identify any trouble spots, and provide a customised quote for services needed. Quotes should provide details on exactly what they’ll do, what products they’ll use, projected costs, and expected outcomes.

6. Understand the Services Offered

Not all companies are equipped to treat every type of pest infestation. For example, a company focused on monthly spraying would not have the right tools to remove a squirrel in the attic. Be sure the company offers the specific pest control services you need like:

• General household pests – spiders, ants, cockroaches, etc.
• Termite control, inspection & certification
• Wildlife removal – raccoons, possums, bats, birds, etc.
• Bee/wasp nest removal
• Rodent control – mice, rats
• Bed bugs
• Mosquito treatments
• and more

If you need multiple services, choose a full-service company that offers a complete spectrum of residential and commercial pest control solutions under one roof.

Pro Tip: Pay attention to the customer service personnel and details of treatment plans. A caring, knowledgeable person who takes time to explain plans thoroughly is a good sign of a quality service provider.

7. Ask About Pesticides and Solutions Used

Nowadays, most people want eco-friendly products over harsh chemicals when possible. Ask the company for a list of all pesticides and methods they use. Look up ones you don’t know. Make sure they match what you want environmentally. But know that some unwanted guests need strong chemicals to get rid of safely. A good company uses a mix of low-impact and conventional chemicals based on your specific problem.

8. Verify Safe Application Practices

The best pest companies take safety seriously. They carefully store, mix, and use chemicals. Technicians should place bait or inject pesticides instead of wide spraying. Make sure the company follows all rules on chemical labels and EPA guides. This keeps your family, kids, and pets safe. Properly using and throwing out chemicals is so important.

9. Ask for Referrals

The best way to know if a company is good is to check their references and reviews. A good company will give you a list of past local clients to call. Speaking to previous customers lets you hear directly about their service. Also read online reviews on Google, Yelp, and the company’s website. Look for companies with mainly 4 or 5 star ratings over many years. No company is perfect, but you want to see mostly positive feedback.

Conclusion

Following these tips will help you find the best pest control companies in your area. Make sure to research before picking one. Ask them lots of questions, good companies won’t mind. Choosing a reliable pest control company means they can get rid of your pests properly. And you’ll feel better knowing your home is protected.