Pests like mice and rats contaminate about 20% of food annually. They also spread more than 35 diseases to humans through their feces, urine, and saliva or mites, ticks, and contaminated food. Pests can be infuriating and annoying when they enter your house. Unfortunately, when many people discover that they have a pest infestation in their house, they make the mistake of using DIY extermination methods to deal with the problem.
However, this does not work, and they look for a professional pest control company to deal with the pests. That is why it is a good idea to look for a good professional pest control company when your home is invaded by pests. However, choosing an exemplary pest control service can be a daunting task as there are many companies to choose from. It is better to take your time when looking for a pest exterminator, as these professionals will come to your home and bring potentially harmful products.
The good news is that this article is here to help you make an informed decision as it will help you know the things you need to consider to find a reliable, professional, and trustworthy professional pest control company. That said, here are some tips to help you make an informed decision when looking for a pest control service:
1. The Number of Years the Company Has Been In Operation
Experience is one of the most important things to consider when looking for pest control services. It is a good idea to work with an experienced local pest control company as such companies fully understand the pests found in your area and how to deal with them effectively.
One of the best things about an experienced company is that they have a long track record and you can find a lot about them easily. Choose a pest exterminator who sounds assuring and knowledgeable when answering your questions.
2. Is The Company Licensed, Insured, and Bonded?
A professional pest control company has to have a license to offer services in their area. The company should also have a certified controller and trained staff that performs certain duties. In addition, a pest company should have at least 4 accredited operators that fall under General Pest Control, Fumigation, Termite, and Lawn & Ornamental.
It is very important to ensure that the company you choose has all licenses as they need to fully understand application methods, cleaning protocols, and safety practices. In addition, choose a company that is bonded and carries many insurance policies, including professional liability, general liability, and workers’ compensation.
3. The Company’s Online Reviews and Testimonials
One of the best ways to find a good company is to read online reviews and testimonials. You can find honest testimonials and customer reviews on a company’s website or legitimate review websites and social media platforms like Facebook, Yelp, and Google.
Reading honest online reviews and testimonials will help you make an informed decision when looking for a pest control company, as it will help you have a rough idea of what to expect from a certain company. Only consider those companies with more positive than negative reviews.
4. The Training That the Company’s Technicians Have Gone Through
Apart from considering the training that the pest control company managers have gone through, it would help if you considered the training the technicians have gone through. Keep in mind that the technicians are the ones who will come into your home.
So, it is good to know about their training and their preparedness when it comes to dealing with pests. Professional pest management isn’t easy and technicians need to fully understand the kind of pests they are dealing with and where they stay before choosing an extermination method.
5. Complimentary Inspections
It is a good idea to find out whether the company you are considering offers complimentary inspections. Many professional pest control companies usually offer a free initial inspection. Consider choosing a company that will inspect your home to determine the best way to deal with pests and prevent a recurrence.
6. The Kind of Quote That the Company Offers
One of the most important questions to ask you when looking for a pest control company is whether or not they offer a written quote. The good thing about a written quote is that it will help you know the exact cost of pest control. An estimate is not enough as it will only give you a rough idea of this cost.
In fact, some companies like using low estimates to attract customers, only to charge more later on when they are done. Some companies will look for ways to add hidden or extra costs that you did not know about earlier. As such, hire pest control companies that inspect a property first, understand the issue they are dealing with and offer you a written quote mentioning all the costs involved.
7. Long Term Services
Some properties, like commercial properties that deal with food production, need long-term pest control management. A company that offers long-term services will come to your property whenever you see a pest or rodent. The good thing with such companies is that you will not have to keep looking for the best pest control companies in your area. This is because a professional exterminator will always be at your beck and call.
8. The Safety of The Company’s Pest Control Treatments
Even though most modern pest control products are meant to be lethal to pests but safe to human beings and pests, it is good to find out how safe the treatments used by a company are. This is important to consider, especially for those with children and pets in their homes. A professional exterminator will tell you about the safety of their treatments, the precautions to take, and reassure you that the products are harmless to human beings and pets.
9. Guarantee
When looking for a pest control company, consider those that offer guarantees. This is because it is easy for pets to come back. A good company takes preventative methods that will deal with pest invasion once and for all. Such a company will offer you a guarantee or warranty in case the pests aren’t fully exterminated or if you are not satisfied with the results.
Hiring a Good Professional Pest Control Company
Hiring a good professional pest control company is not all about choosing the first company you come across. It is about taking your time and doing extensive research to make an informed decision. Unfortunately, one of the mistakes that many people make is choosing the cheapest company.
Avoid this by choosing a company that offers quality services at a fair price. If you choose a good pest control service, the pest invasion will be dealt with once and for all, and you will not have to do it again in the future.
