Do Your Research
When you first find a pest problem on your property, you’d most likely want to get the problem fixed as soon as possible. Remember, pest problems can wait while you do research to make sure you pick the most competent pest and termite control company. When researching companies, make sure you get a collection of estimates so you can compare them depending on the type of budget you have. Luckily, most companies will offer you an estimate for free!
Check Their Reputation
Don’t just rely on Google for research, ask your friends, family, and neighbors for their best recommendations. You should seriously consider dropping information via ads online since they can be deceiving. It’s best to contact the Better Businesses Bureau (BBB) to get even more information on your local pest control companies to check on their complaints, issues, and recent violations. Plus, we even suggest asking the companies directly for references to check.
Are They Licensed?
Although most local and state agencies issue their own licenses, it’s always smart to contact your local State Pesticide Regulatory Agent. Remember to check your best control technician’s license to make sure it is both current and issued by your state department. It’s also wise to ask the exterminator if their employees are bonded. If they are then they can reimburse you for and damages caused by the employees.
What Kind Of Insurance Do They Offer?
Mainly for the homeowner whose properties are being affected by termites, not every insurance plan covers damage done by termites. When deciding on a company, it’s smart to find a reputable business that can both treat the infestation and prevent further infestations. Damage clauses are not a common warranty that is offered by insurance companies. When signing your insurance contract, make sure damages are covered, especially damages from termite infestations. However, if they cannot offer this sort of contract, you should purchase a termite inspection once a year to protect your property.
How Much Experience Do They Have?
When researching or consulting a termite control company, have them answer these questions:
– How long have their company been in business?
– What kind of experience does their company have handling the type of pests you have in your home?
– What is the training process for their employees?
Can They Offer a List of References?
When consulting companies, ask them if they can provide a set list of references for you to check. This way, you can get a one-on-one view of what their services are like, and whether or not they are worth the money. However, if they can’t offer any references, we highly suggest to take them off your list.
Will The Actual Technician Be Certified and Licenses?
Every exterminator must employ at least one licensed and certified pesticide applicator for each service that they offer. If they are not certified applicators, every other applicator on staff must be a licensed technician who is under the direct supervision of a certified applicator. You can verify these licenses and certifications by contacting the State Department of Agriculture.
Ask For Copies of Their Credentials and Pesticide Labels
A reliable company will be able to provide you with copies of all their credentials. They should also be able to give you copies of the labels of the pesticides they intend to use. The label will state how the product is to be applied, how frequently, and any safety precautions.
How Will They Handle Your Problem?
What methods will they use to rid your home of pests? Will they use traps, baits, chemicals, or something else? Ask them for their plan of action in advance. This way, you can compare techniques between all of the companies that have made in on your short list.
Do They Offer a Guarantee?
If a company does not offer a guarantee for their services, you may want to give them a second look. A company that doesn’t offer any sort of guarantee should be approached with a healthy dose of skepticism. Even if the company does offer a guarantee, you should still read all the terms before going into business with them. Some companies include certain clauses that can nullify the guarantee.
Don’t Get Pressured Into Signing Anything
If a company is trying to pressure you into signing something immediately, take a step back. They may not be as trustworthy as you once thought. You should be absolutely sure about something before you sign anything.
Read the Whole Contract Before You Sign Anything
Read over everything before you agree to sign. Then, read it over again. The contract should lay out everything you discussed in your consultation, including the services provided and the estimate. Make sure you totally understand everything in the contract. If there is any part you do not get, ask for clarification. Also, always ask for a written contract rather than a verbal one.
Once you have chosen your pest control company…
Be sure to take note of the following things:
– Date and time of your inspection and treatment
– Names of the people who will be servicing your property
– The types of products they will use, their specific names, their EPA registration numbers, and where they will use each product
– Any safety or health concerns you should look for in case someone in your home is exposed to any pesticides
– If there is anything your must do to prepare, such as cleaning, moving away food or clutter from the area, or preventing children and pets from entering the spot
Choosing the correct pest control company is crucial in getting rid of the pests in your home or office completely. When meeting with companies, be sure to ask any question that you may have and trust your gut when you make your final decision. For more information on pest control or extermination services, contact us at Casner Exterminating.