How to Choose the Best Pest Control Company
9 Questions You Should Ask
Choosing a reputable pest control company is an important decision. After all, you are letting strangers into your home and trusting them to get rid of pests safely and effectively. With so many options out there, how do you know which company is the right fit?
When researching pest control companies, there are some key questions you should ask to help you make the best choice. Here are 10 essential questions to ask any potential pest control provider before signing a contract:
1. Are You Licensed, Accredited, and Certified?
The first thing you’ll want to check is whether the company and its technicians are properly licensed, accredited, and certified. True professionals should have no problem showing you documentation of state licenses, industry accreditations like the Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (AEPMA) Accreditation Scheme, and training certificates for individual technicians.
This shows they have passed exams and comply with regulations in your state. It also indicates the technicians receive ongoing education on safe, effective treatment methods. Steer clear of companies that can’t provide documentation.
2. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?
A trustworthy pest control service provider should stand behind their work with some type of service guarantee or warranty. Many offer 30 to 90 day callbacks if pests reappear, while others provide guarantees against structural damage.
Ask about the types of guarantees offered and what specific pests or scenarios are covered. Read all warranty documentation carefully before signing to avoid confusion. Having a good warranty provides assurance the company will address any issues that arise.
3. Are You Fully Insured?
Reputable providers carry both pesticide and general liability insurance. General liability covers property damage, while pesticide liability protects you in case technicians misapply chemicals. Request documentation of current safety net policies so you can confirm coverage amounts and what’s included.
This protects you financially in the rare case something goes wrong. Only work with properly insured companies for your peace of mind.
4. How Much Experience Do Your Technicians Have?
When hiring a pest control service, you want confidence that the technicians know what they are doing. Ask questions like:
- How long has the company been in business?
- Do technicians receive ongoing training?
- How many years of experience do technicians have on average?
Look for seasoned companies and technicians with 5+ years of experience in your local area. This often translates to better knowledge of regional pests, climate patterns, treatment challenges, and more.
5. Do You Offer Free Quotes?
Professional pest control companies should offer free, no-obligation quotes before starting any new job. This allows them to thoroughly inspect your home, identify all current pest issues, and recommend customised solutions. It also gives you a price estimate so you can budget appropriately before approving services.
Avoid companies that ask you to pay just to get a quote. Also be careful with companies who start spraying right away without inspecting your home first.
6. What Specific Services and Pests Do You Treat?
Not all integrated pest management companies treat all types of pests or offer all services. As you describe your specific issues, make sure the company has experience handling those exact pests and treatment scenarios. Common services and pests they should address include:
- General household pests (rodents, ants, cockroaches, etc.)
- Wood-destroying insects (termites, carpenter ants, etc.)
- Wildlife removal and exclusion
- Mosquito and tick treatments
- Commercial services
- And more
A full-service company will be equipped to tackle just about any pest or infestation. More experienced providers may excel at one particular service but refer out others. Make sure your needs align with their specific expertise.
7. Do You Use Green, Eco-Friendly Chemicals and Methods?
Nowadays, many homeowners want to avoid using lots of strong, toxic pesticide sprays inside their homes. Good pest companies focus first on things like keeping pests out, good sanitation, traps, and monitoring. They only use pesticide sprays when necessary.
Ask companies about the types of pesticide products they use and how they apply them. Look for companies that use “green” or eco-friendly options when possible. This is safer for you, your pets, and the environment.
8. Can You Provide Local Referrals and Reviews?
Speaking with past customers is one of the best ways to gauge a company’s quality of service and expertise. Ask the service provider for previous customer referrals and check online review sites.
Look closely at reviews that give details – things like whether the technicians were professional, if the treatments worked on certain pests, whether they showed up on time, if pricing was clear, etc. Many good reviews about specifics means the company reliably does a good job – it’s not just empty praise. A bunch of great reviews shows it’s likely a good and trustworthy company.
9. Do You Offer Any Other Value-Added Services?
Some pest control companies offer extra services that others don’t have. For example, they might give discounted treatments each year to stop pests coming back. Or they could give free advice on keeping pests out and good sanitation to prevent problems next year. Some offer longer warranties, rodent-proofing, mosquito misting systems, wildlife removal advice, and other extras.
Think about choosing a reputable company with more than just basic spraying. Find one with additional services that match what you need. This gives you better value and makes protecting your home and family from pests more convenient.
Conclusion
Asking these questions upfront does take more time. But it’s worth it – doing research now can prevent bigger problems later with an unreliable company. Always ask to see licenses, protection plan paperwork, and reviews. Check out a few different companies before choosing one. The best pest control company won’t deny answering all your questions. Putting in this effort now means you’ll find trustworthy pros who get rid of pests safely.
Article written by Stewart Bailey From Eco Pest Control in Adelaide.
