As the saying goes, where you see one mouse, there are almost certainly more. The same applies to nearly any other kind of vermin that can wiggle its way into your home. Choosing an effective exterminator or pest control agent is important; ineffective treatments can have your problem returning in a week or two, and in some disastrous cases make your home MORE attractive to pests. To ensure that you get a properly qualified pest control agent you're going to need to front some hard questions, and hold firm until you get answers.
How experienced are you? Some companies specialize in different things; some go for rodents, others for wasps and ants, and others get into more esoteric things. When it doubt, try to find a pest control company that specializes in the kind of vermin you're seeing.
Do you belong to any organizations? Most good pest control companies are certified by a national board, or belong to a national agency of some sort. Be sure to ask what certification organizations your pest control company is part of. A major international one is the National Pest Management Association, and it firmly regulates pest control agencies and holds them to a minimum qualification rung.
How dangerous is this going to be to my children/pets? If there is anything in your home that has a weaker immune system than an adult human, this is something that you need to look in to. If you find that some of the sprays that they are planning to use might be a little risky, ask from some alternatives (gels etc.), or go elsewhere.
Do you have any references? Ask if they have serviced anyone that you might have heard of, and if they have any testimonials to their name. If you can find people who are satisfied with their service, there is a good chance that you will be as well.
Can I get that in writing? Pest control usually follows a two page process - the first is an inspection to find out how they're getting into your home, what they're after and more. Get any kind of reporting in writing, and get a quote for the service. Be free in cross checking with other services to make sure you're getting good information and accurate pricing.
Are they making you feel rushed? Remember that if you have something like termites that you seldom need to act right this minute. A delay of weeks or even of months will not make your issue worse, and you will find that a company that is trying to pressure you into committing to treatment right away might be trying to goad you into paying more or into overlooking some important details!
Have I checked with my local Consumer Commission or Better Business Bureau? If anything that the pest control company does, or doesn't do, causes you to question their practices don't hesitate to contact your local consumer commission. They will be aware of any issues involving this particular company in the past and can put you in touch with relevant local regulatory agencies.
As with any professional service, it pays to shop around and ask questions. Good luck and happy hunting!
How experienced are you? Some companies specialize in different things; some go for rodents, others for wasps and ants, and others get into more esoteric things. When it doubt, try to find a pest control company that specializes in the kind of vermin you're seeing.
Do you belong to any organizations? Most good pest control companies are certified by a national board, or belong to a national agency of some sort. Be sure to ask what certification organizations your pest control company is part of. A major international one is the National Pest Management Association, and it firmly regulates pest control agencies and holds them to a minimum qualification rung.
How dangerous is this going to be to my children/pets? If there is anything in your home that has a weaker immune system than an adult human, this is something that you need to look in to. If you find that some of the sprays that they are planning to use might be a little risky, ask from some alternatives (gels etc.), or go elsewhere.
Do you have any references? Ask if they have serviced anyone that you might have heard of, and if they have any testimonials to their name. If you can find people who are satisfied with their service, there is a good chance that you will be as well.
Can I get that in writing? Pest control usually follows a two page process - the first is an inspection to find out how they're getting into your home, what they're after and more. Get any kind of reporting in writing, and get a quote for the service. Be free in cross checking with other services to make sure you're getting good information and accurate pricing.
Are they making you feel rushed? Remember that if you have something like termites that you seldom need to act right this minute. A delay of weeks or even of months will not make your issue worse, and you will find that a company that is trying to pressure you into committing to treatment right away might be trying to goad you into paying more or into overlooking some important details!
Have I checked with my local Consumer Commission or Better Business Bureau? If anything that the pest control company does, or doesn't do, causes you to question their practices don't hesitate to contact your local consumer commission. They will be aware of any issues involving this particular company in the past and can put you in touch with relevant local regulatory agencies.
As with any professional service, it pays to shop around and ask questions. Good luck and happy hunting!
About the Author:
About the author: Darren K. Thompson highlights the importance of quality pest control on his website where you can also read information on how to handle termite infestations and other annoying pest problems.
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