1. How long have you been in business?

In general, it’s good to work with a pest control company that has an established reputation and history in your community. If the company has been around for a while, you can search for any complaints or derogatory remarks with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau, the Environmental Protection Agency, or other state and local departments and agencies tasked with overseeing both local and traditional pest control companies.1 Any negative listings could be cause for seeking out an alternative company with a better reputation.

2. Are your technicians certified, licensed and insured?

Pest control services can only be administered in the presence of a technician who is certified and licensed to do this work. Ask to see valid certifications before any work begins, to make sure your pest control service is being overseen by credible professionals.

“Homeowners also want to work with a pest control company that’s insured in the event something goes wrong,” says a spokesperson for A-1 Able Pest Doctors. “If the company isn’t insured, you may be on the hook for any damage or complications related to their service.”

3. Can you provide labels for the pesticides you will be using in my home?

Before pesticides are sprayed in your home, ask the pest control company to provide copies of the labels of the chemicals that will be used. You will want to see these labels to make sure that instructions for proper application are being followed. These labels will also offer various precautions and warnings that the pest control company may fail to disclose.1

By getting the labels ahead of time, you can arm yourself with the information you need to properly protect your family—or you can request an alternative pesticide treatment if you’re worried about the risks.

4. Are your treatments safe for pets?

If you have pets living in the home, make sure any pest treatments applied to your property aren’t going to affect the health of your pets. The pest control company may adjust its chemicals used, or its treatment strategy, based on the potential risks posed to your pet.

“Make sure you understand any protocols that should be followed to protect your pets during and after a pesticide treatment,” says a spokesperson for A-1 Able Pest Doctors. “For example, you will likely need to remove your pets from your property and keep them away until the pesticide has had a chance to fully dry.”

5. How long is your work guaranteed for?

Many pest control companies can guarantee that the product, or state you reside in, are under a service agreement for any additional services required during your guarantee period. This guarantee period can vary: for termite infestations, for example, the guarantee could be anywhere from one to five years.

Ask about the specific guarantees for that company and what they offer if and when a reinfestation occurs. And consider reading online reviews to see if there are cases where the company’s guarantees, or their promises for service, have fallen through in the past.

Don’t let a rushed decision put you in a bad position with a disreputable pest control company. Do a little homework and make sure you’re working with a pest control company that has a reputation in your community, and a commitment to providing solid service to its customers.

Sources:

1. https://www.epa.gov/safepestcontrol/tips-selecting-pest-control-service