The internet provides access to a lot of advice on DIY
termite and other pest control methods; but they are never as effective,
reliable or safe as using a professional pest control service. There is also a considerable
body of ‘expert’ advice about how to choose a pest control company. Some of
this advice is simply common sense, some of it questionable and the rest
downright wrong.
The best
reliable guide to finding the right pest control company is that of the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Its Citizen's
Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide Safety is a comprehensive handbook on
pest control. The section on how to choose a pest control company is clear and
simple. The following aspects demand your attention to ensure that your home is
well protected from termites and other pests.
1 Is
the company licensed?
It is mandatory for a professional pest
control company to hold a license from a state or local authority. Check to
find out if the company you are in touch with is properly licensed and if the
license is current and valid.
2 Is
the company able to offer pest control options?
There are various types of pest control
options, especially when it comes to termites. A good company not only offers
these options, but also gives you all the information you need. You understand
why a particular type of pest control treatment they recommend is better than
another treatment. This applies to all pest control services, including those
that say their services are “Green.”
3 Are the company’s track
record and reputation impressive?
No business will ever admit to potential
customers that its services are sub-standard. Hence, you need to evaluate its
pest control reputation. For that, you can check its testimonials received from
genuine customers, and examine what they have said about the service they
received. This will give you an indication of what you can expect. Also, check with the Better Business Bureau for
any serious complaints against the company. A Diamond Certification and
inclusion in Angie’s List are indications of the reliability of the company.
4 Does
the company offer customer-friendly insurance and bonding cover?
A good company offers insurance cover for damage they cause your home or the environment. There
should be worker’s compensation as well
to protect you in case one of their employees is injured while working in your
home. The employees should be bonded so that you will be compensated for any
loss or damage they may cause you.
5 What
kind of warranty is available?
A good professional company will offer you
a warranty on its service so that you are protected against any recurrence of
the problem for a defined period. Preferably, choose a company, which offers an
industry-leading three-year full structure warranty.
Any termite
control company is not the right one for you. The reliable one carries out the
kind of work that meets EPA guidelines so that your
home and family remain safe from pest
infestations. Do not settle for anything but the best when choosing a termite control company.
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