How to choose a pest control company

You should select a pest control company based on both competence and value. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “If pesticides are misused, both health and property can be damaged.” Before you choose a company, do the following:

• Ask your neighbors. Start by checking with your neighbors to see what pest control company they use, especially since they’re probably dealing with the same pest headaches you are.

• Read online reviews. Sites like Google allow you to read individual customer experiences with specific companies and look at aggregated star ratings.

• Compare quotes. Don’t go with the first pest control company that comes knocking at your door. Instead, collect multiple quotes and compare the services and rates that each offers.

• Look for certifications. Pest control companies with certifications from the National Pest Management Association have been vetted by the professional pest management industry.

• Ask about guarantees. “Regardless of how often a company treats, it is still possible for insects to enter a home, ” says Sean Hearn, a certified operator and the Director of Business Development at All U Need Pest Control. “Most reputable companies will stand behind their work and take care of these issues without charging any more for that service.”

6 tips to reduce pest control costs

There are a few things you can do to limit the cost of pests at bay:

• Keep up with regular treatments. “Many companies that are regularly treating a home offer free service calls to handle any issues that arise throughout the year, which can save you money in the long run,” states Hearn.

• Take advantage of off-season deals. Sansig advises homeowners to look for deals during the colder months when pests are less active. “Many companies run specials in the winter months with reduced rates for early signup,” he said.

• Purchase a bundled service. Buying a preventive package that covers a list of pests is usually more affordable than purchasing individual treatments to handle pest problems as they crop up. For example, some pest control companies will give you a discount on specialized services, such as termite prevention, if you already have a pest control contract with them.

• Take advantage of referral programs. Check with neighbors to see if they have a pest management service, as many offer referral programs with discounted rates.

• Keep your property tidy. Thrasher said homeowners can cut pest control costs by making their homes less hospitable to pests and easier to treat. “Clutter attracts and harbors pests,” he said. “Remove boxes and cans, tools, lumber scraps or firewood, old toys and sporting equipment leaning against the side of the house.” He also advises homeowners to trim back any vegetation that pests can use as a bridge to enter the home.

• Call right away. Hearn urges homeowners to call a company at the first sign of an infestation. “It will be much easier for them to treat a small, isolated issue, rather than waiting for it to become a widespread infestation,” he adds.