What Do Pest Control Companies Do?
Pest control companies treat existing pest or rodent infestations and help prevent future invasions. Reputable pros practice integrated pest management (IPM).
How Does Pest Control Work?
Integrated pest management usually involves the following five steps:
- Inspection – Areas where insects or rodents are common are inspected first.
- Prevention – After an inspection, suggestions such as reducing food or water sources may be given.
- Identification – Once the rodent is identified, effective treatment with the least impact to people, pets and the environment is given.
- Treatment – This may be chemical, non-chemical or a combination of the two.
- Monitoring – This is essential to ensure treatment is effective. He/she will also suggest a schedule of regular inspections.
Signs You Need to Call Pest Control
There are some instances that require immediate attention. If you see any of these five signs, call a pro right away:
- Property Damage – Look out for teeth marks on or holes gnawed in furniture, clothes, wiring or walls.
- Urine and/or Droppings – Cockroaches, mice, and rats leave these traces. They also carry deadly diseases and can multiply quickly.
- Unusual Sounds – Scratching in cabinets or behind ceilings and walls indicates rodents, ants, or termites.
- Visual Confirmation – For every insect or rodent you see, there are likely more you don’t. A few ants or roaches, for example, is typically the sign of a hidden nest.
Whole House Prevention Systems
A whole-house prevention system puts bug or rodent deterrents throughout your home.
Questions to Ask Exterminators
Before you commit to a treatment or contract, you should ask your pro a series of questions:
- What types of pests are you licensed to treat?
- How long have you been in business?
- Are your technicians trained and licensed?
- Do you offer a guarantee?
- What precautions should my family take before, during, and after treatment?
- Do you have online reviews and/or customer referrals?
- Do you follow IPM protocol?
- Do you offer a free inspection and written quote?
- Can you get rid of my problem?
- Will you monitor the results?
Pest Control Scams to Avoid
Not all providers are true professionals. Be on the lookout for common scams.
- Unfavorable Contract Terms – Be wary of self-renewing contracts or contracts that do not allow cancellation.
- Variable Pricing – Pricing should be clear and in writing so both parties are protected.
Is Pest Control Worth It?
Hiring a service can actually save you time and money in the end. Costs of repeat DIY treatments add up over time. Applying your own chemicals also poses health and safety risks. Finally, bugs and rodents can cause costly damage if you do not get rid of them quickly and entirely.