3 Tips for Choosing a Pest Control Service

by Kevin Smith Author

The circumstances that require a pest control service can be less than savory. Pests and vermin are unpleasant. That’s why it’s a good idea to find a pest control company you trust to help keep your home or business clear of crawling creatures.

A pest control service will have access to your property and may be using potentially dangerous substances around your family and pets. Therefore, you must do your homework before hiring a company to handle pest control at your home or business. You’ll want to find pest control services in Jacksonville, FL, that do a thorough job in a safe, professional manner with courteous service. Read on to find a few tips for hiring a high-quality professional pest control service.

Research Ahead of Time

Research is your primary ally in hiring a great pest control service. Though the creepiness of your pest problem may lead you to want the quickest resolution possible, don’t move forward without checking out prospective services. Enter company names into search engines to make sure that there are no negative news articles about them. Check reviews online and take them with a grain of salt. Ask family and friends for referrals. This will help you narrow the field considerably.

Ask Plenty of Questions

Upon contacting pest control services, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’ll want to ask about their history, how long they’ve been in business, how long they’ve been at their current address or location, and what certifications or licenses they carry. Are they members of the local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau? Ask them for a list of references, as well as proof of pesticide application certifications or licenses. You’ll want to also know if the person who will be performing pesticide treatments is licensed as an applicator. Finally, ask about the specific chemicals that may be used, and if possible, if you can get a copy of the label.

Watch Out for Red Flags

There are a few red flags that you can look for when seeking a pest control company. One or two may not mean the company is completely disreputable but remember to use your judgment. Don’t select a service that doesn’t have a physical address or phone number. If a pest service knocks on your door claiming that insects have been found at other nearby homes and tries to sell you service, avoid that service. Watch out for companies that charge you by the gallon of pesticide used, because some pest problems may require hundreds of gallons of treatment. If a company claims to be endorsed by the EPA or state governing bodies, do not hire that company. Governmental bodies to not endorse pest control service providers or specific pest control products.

If you’re in need of pest control services in Jacksonville, FL, make sure to conduct diligent research before allowing a company into your home. Do your homework beforehand, ask plenty of questions, and watch out for red flags to get a pest control service that you can trust to keep you and your family safe.