First, homeowners, landlords, and renters can control pests in their homes by taking preventive steps, such as proper sanitation and home maintenance. Some pest infestations can be severe or difficult to control and may require the assistance of a pest control professional.
Choose a pest control service the same way as any other service. Quality and value are key. Competence is essential, and the cost of pest control services should not be the sole deciding factor. You need to ensure that the pest control company you select is competent. Pesticides can cause damage to property and health. Consider the following before you hire a pest control firm:
Take your time and do your homework
Most people want to eliminate a pest problem as soon as they find it. Most pest problems can wait for a few days, so it is essential to have enough time to find a qualified, reasonably priced company. It is good to get multiple estimates from potential companies, and many companies offer free estimates.
Questions to ask prospective pest control firms
Are they certified, licensed pesticide application specialists, or licensed technicians?
Every company must have at minimum one licensed, certified commercial pesticide applicator for each service category. Applicators for other companies must be licensed technicians or certified applicators under direct supervision by a certified applicator.
You can verify licenses by calling the appropriate State Departments of Agriculture.
Could you send me a copy of your pest control license and copies of all labels for pesticides, along with the rates they will be used?
Reliable applicators can show you their credentials. They will also be able to provide copies of the labels for pesticides that indicate how to apply the product, the appropriate application rates, and any precautions.
Here are some more points to consider
Pest control companies may offer service contracts that allow structures to be routinely treated for particular pests. Contracts may be required in certain situations, such as warehouses receiving crates infested by cockroaches. If there is a persistent infestation of cockroaches in your home, routine pesticide application around the house will not be effective. The homeowner should have periodic inspections. However, pesticides should only be used if the pests cannot be controlled with other methods.
It is standard for termite control work to be guaranteed for between one and five years. You should know the terms of your guarantee and whether there is an annual inspection fee. Find out if the pest control company will be responsible for any structural damage that may result from the treatment. A company offering a guarantee is only as trustworthy as its ability to provide it.
You should cooperate with the service personnel if they ask you to do something before, during, or after the pesticide application.
Follow the service provider's advice if they suggest non-chemical methods to control pests in addition to pesticides.
A good partnership between you and your pest control company can help eradicate pests and decrease pesticide usage.
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