How To Choose a Pest Control Company
When picking a pest control company, there are a number of things you can consider to be sure you choose the best one for you. Important factors include a company's qualifications, its treatment methods, experience and reviews, and of course the cost of services.
Below, we discuss each of these factors in more detail.
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Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets minimum standards of competency for pesticide applicators, but licensure is overseen at the state level. All pesticide applicators and supervisors in Arizona need to be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
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Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
There are additional optional certifications that can help demonstrate that a pest control company is reputable. One of these is the GreenPro Service Certification. For this certification, a company must show that its methods are more environmentally friendly and that its employee training is up to date. Additional certifications can be obtained through QualityPro and similar trade organizations.
Pest control companies can also join various professional organizations. While not required, membership in organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help verify a company's reputability. After joining an organization like the NPMA, a company receives access to education, resources, and a network of professionals with whom to compare best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
In general, a company will list information like its years of experience and specialities on its website. Local reviews can also tell you whether a company has experience dealing with a particular pest in your area. If you're unable to locate the information you need online, you can call the company directly to get the answers to your questions.
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Reviews and Recommendations
You can look at a company's rating and reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), check out local review sites and social media to find out what homeowners near you think, or verify its license standing via the Arizona licensing board.
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Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is probably high on your list of priorities when hiring a pest control company. Cost can be affected influenced by your location, the type of pest being treated, the size of your house, and other factors.
Companies will often offer free on-site estimates as part of their process, to help you determine whether it fits into your budget. You can also ask whether if your company has a satisfaction guarantee, meaning that it will continue to treat your pest problem until it is solved.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, your children, your pets, and the environment may influence which provider and treatment methods you choose.
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Safety
Be sure to ask your pest control provider if they plan on using low toxicity or non-toxic pesticides, and if not, ask about what precautionary measures they will take. Any pesticide that presents above a minimum risk should be registered with the EPA. Your pest control company should supply information about all of the pesticides to be used, as well as how safe they are around people and pets.
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Treatment Methods
Many companies have started offering options for more environmentally friendly pest control techniques before relying on harsh pesticides.
One common method for making pest control safer and greener is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and determine whether immediate action is required.
- Determine the best and safest course of action.
- Use a combination of physical, biological, mechanical, and cultural controls to manage the pest problem.
- Employ chemical controls only when required, and always with other solutions for effective long-term pest management.
- Assess the outcome and continue with additional pest control as needed.
