Best Tips For Selecting a Pest Control Company in Your Area
Choosing a pest control company is a serious matter. After all, you want to be confident that the people you are allowing into your home are trustworthy, qualified, and will take care of your pest issues. It isn't always easy to select a pest control company, though. Especially when you know you have a problem, you want it taken care of as quickly as possible. Before you sign a contract with the first exterminator that comes to mind, take a look at these tips for selecting a pest control company in your area.
1. Look for quality pest control
When it comes to pest extermination, cheaper is not always better. Your pest control company should be competent, as the misuse of pesticides can be detrimental to your health, your property, and the environment. Look for companies that use integrated pest management, which takes a holistic approach to pest management.
2. Seek out companies with QualityPro certification
QualityPro certification is a mark of distinction among pest control companies. To get this accreditation, companies must meet 16 quality standards, which include conducting background checks of employees, administering drug tests, and ensuring that each employee meets pest management training requirements. You can view the full QualityPro Certification Handbook here.
3. Do your research on pest control pros
No one wants to spend any more time than necessary with pests in their home, but many issues can wait a day or two. Take the time to identify quality pest control providers and get quotes. Many providers give free, no-obligation quotes.
4. Evaluate the pest control company's reputation
Check to see if the company is listed on the Better Business Bureau and if they have any recent complaints or other strikes against their reputation. You can see how long they have been in business, when they were accredited by the BBB, and what their BBB rating is.
5. Ask the pest control company for references
Once you have an idea of the company or companies whose services you would like to use, ask them for customer references and follow up.
6. Research their certifications and associations
Does the company you hired have relevant and current certifications? You can verify any licensing by getting in contact with your state's pesticide regulatory office. South Carolina's regulatory office is at Clemson and North Carolina's is the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
7. Ask if they are insured
If a tech injures themselves on your property or if something happens to your home, who is responsible? Make sure you have the full details and that you're comfortable with them before signing a contract.
8. Know what the terms of the contract are
Does the company guarantee their work? If they do, what are the terms of that guarantee? What is the scope, how long does it last, what is your part, and what ongoing measures need to be taken?
9. Avoid pest control companies with red flags
If a provider tries to pressure you into signing a contract or makes you feel as if your home faces imminent termite destruction unless you sign right now, do not contract with them. Other red flags include: missing or non functioning phone numbers, door-to-door selling without identification or credentials, and claims of being endorsed by a government agency (government agencies don't endorse service providers or particular pesticide brands).
Take the time to evaluate your options before selecting a pest control company. Palmetto Exterminators offers free, no obligation pest inspections, so you can begin the evaluation process with confidence. Our service areas span the Carolinas. Whether you need mosquito exterminators in Charleston, a Hilton Head exterminator, or one of the pest control companies in Myrtle Beach, Palmetto Exterminators is here to help. For more information on pest control services, contact Palmetto Exterminators or visit our Educate Yourself page for answers to frequently asked questions.
