How do I choose a pest control professional? A lot of people ask their friends and colleagues about different Pest Control companies they should use. Sometimes you just have to call in a pro. Having an insect...
Sometimes you just have to call in a pro. Having an insect or rodent problem may be such a case. But how do you know who to call? What are the things to look out for, the questions to ask?
Stoy Hedges is an entomologist and Director of Technical Services for Terminix International. Hedges says, "A lot of people end up asking their friends and colleagues about different companies they should use. You also want to make sure that the company has proper state licensing. You want to make sure they are also members of the state and the national pest control associations. You want to make sure that they have a good guarantee and that they stand by their guarantee. You also could check the Better Business Bureau. Find out if the company has a lot of complaints against them. Call the pest control company and do an interview with them. See how knowledgeable they are, and how responsive they are to your needs."
The Michigan State Department of Agriculture website (http://www.michigan.gov/mda/html) recommends you ask plenty of questions like, "How long will it take to remedy my pest problem?" "Will it require multiple visits?" They also suggest you inquire how the staff is kept up to date on new techniques, regulations, and requirements. The Michigan State Department of Agriculture also recommends getting estimates from several companies so you can compare prices, and services, products and techniques they will use.
The Alabama Cooperative Extension System has an articles on their website on choosing a pest control professional at http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR 1101/ . According to it, homeowners first need to consider their own needs and desires. Are you sensitive to chemicals? Do you prefer monthly, quarterly or yearly service?
The ACES website states, "The trend is toward more extensive service with fewer trips. One advantage to monthly pest control is that someone should be looking at your house for pest problems monthly." The website says a disadvantage to a monthly schedule is that many customers insist on chemical treatments every month, even when not necessary. While it may be advantageous to have a professional out each month to stay on top of any potential problems, over-spraying is not a healthy practice.
The ACES website also says, "Seventy-seven percent of all insects live outside the home. Sometimes it is not even necessary for the pest control operator to enter the home to take care of pest problems." That means more convenience for busy schedules, since you don't even need to be home in the case of exterior service treatments.
Finally, the ACES website gives lots of good advice for looking closely at the contract. Make sure the most important and obvious details are included like the name of the company, the dates of the service period, the contact information for the company, what is covered, and the price.
Are there exclusion clauses? Can either party cancel the contract, and is there a penalty for doing so? Is there an arbitration clause to settle disputes? Check out the companies certificate of insurance and make sure it is adequate and includes a clause for errors and omissions and that they include things like broken items and stains to carpeting. Make certain both parties sign the contract and have copies.
Hiring a professional pest control company is a big decision, and might be a long-term commitment, so be sure to do your homework before signing on the dotted line.
