8 Things to Consider When Hiring a Pest Control Company

Sometimes you just can’t handle the problem yourself. The bed bugs are too much, the mosquitoes are multiplying at an alarming rate, and if you see one more mouse dropping…

Fortunately, you don’t have to tackle a pest infestation alone. Hiring a pest control company will allow someone else to take care of the problem while you gain valuable peace of mind, knowing you aren’t sharing your home with several families of spiders.

But what should you look for in pest control companies, and how can you know when you’ve found your match – the company that is going to save your sanity while allowing you to feel confident walking barefoot in your home again?

1. Is the Company Professional?

This seems like a no-brainer, but when dealing with something as emotional as a kitchen pest infestation, you may not think to stop and check credentials. If you really want those ants out of your pantry for good, credentials are crucial.

Is the company bonded and insured? Pest control companies aren’t always required to be insured, but it would be wise to only hire a company that carries insurance. If an accident happens, you deserve protection.

How does their website look (if they even have one)? Can you get a feel for their values, and do they align with your own?

2. Is the Company Knowledgeable?

When you talk to the technician, does he have a good understanding of common pest problems in your area? If you describe the appearance of the pest, can he give you a confident answer of what you’re likely dealing with? Has the company had success in eradicating this particular pest from other homes in the area?

3. Do Other People Recommend the Pest Control Company?

Talk to your neighbors and friends about the pest control companies they’ve hired. When you’ve settled on a company you’d like to work with, check them out on the Better Business Bureau website as well as other popular reviews sites such as Google+ and Yelp. You can even ask the company for references.

4. Does the Technician Thoroughly Investigate?

Your technician should listen to all your descriptions of the pest – what it looks like if you’ve seen it, where the droppings have been found, and what sounds you’ve heard. Then, he should actually inspect your home to find evidence of the pests. Once that has been done, a treatment plan for your specific pest should be put in place.

5. Does the Contract Check Out?

If you have an infestation, you’ll most likely need recurring service. Oftentimes, monthly (or even more frequent) services will be required until the pest problem is under control, and then they can taper off to more spaced-out intervals. Ask questions, and understand the terms of the contract before you sign.

6. How Do You Feel About the Chemicals?

Ask questions about the chemicals the pest control company plans to use. What affects do they have on pets and humans? Will you need to leave your home? Do they offer non-chemical options? Ask for a Material Safety Data Sheet and specimen label for each chemical being used.

7. Do They Offer a Guarantee?

A guarantee sweetens any deal, and at a minimum, your pest control company should offer a guarantee that you’ll be satisfied with their service. This inspires confidence in the company and allows you to work with them as the process continues.

8. Does the Company Affiliate Itself with a Professional Pest Control Association?

You can tell if a company is dedicated to quality if they affiliate with a professional pest control association, as these associations hold their members to certain code of standards and ethics. In addition, these associations keep their members informed of new processes and safety measures. A company that stays on top of this industry knowledge is a company that cares about the service they offer.

Continue to Evaluate

Pest control is not “set it and forget it.” Keep looking for signs of pests even as you’re receiving pest control services. A good pest control company will keep working with you throughout the whole process. Nobody likes to need a pest control company, but when you find the right one, you’ll worry a lot less knowing someone has it all under control.

If you’re looking for a professional pest control company in the Austin or Houston, TX area, please contact Barefoot Mosquito & Pest Control at 512-400-2008 or request a free pest control quote online!