How To Choose a Pest Control Company
Choosing the best pest control solution for you is important. Along with a company's qualifications and pest extermination methods, you may also look into how long it has been in business and what the reviews are like. Finally, you'll likely want to consider the cost of services.
Below, we explore the details of each of these factors.
Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set minimum standards of competency for pesticide applicators, but licensing is taken care of at the state level. All pesticide applicators and their supervisors in Georgia need to be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.
Is the company a member of any professional organizations?
A pest control company can optionally apply for additional certifications from QualityPro or similar trade organizations to support its standards and methods. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is granted to any company that can demonstrate that its methods are more environmentally friendly. These companies also need to maintain certain training standards for employees.
Pest control companies can also hold membership in various professional organizations. When a company joins an organization such as the National Pest Management Association(NPMA) (or a state-level organization), it gets access to resources, education, and a network of other pest experts with whom to compare treatment methods. This can offer additional peace of mind that a company is following industry best practices.
Professional Experience and Specialties
Looking at how long a pest control company has been in business can help determine how much experience it has handling various pests in Atlanta. You can also explore its website or read customer reviews to figure out whether it has experience eliminating the type of pests you are struggling with. If you cannot find this information online, calling the company directly is a good way to learn more.
Reviews and Recommendations
You can read reviews and recommendations on local review sites or social media, look up a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, or check its licensure status through the Georgia licensing board.
Cost of Services and Guarantees
Cost is an important consideration when choosing a pest control company. Cost may be determined by your location, the size of your house, the type of pest being treated, and other factors.
Certain pest control companies offer a free on-site estimate to help you figure out if it fits into your budget. You can also check to see if it offers a guarantee of satisfaction.
Safety and Treatment Methods
Your choice of pest control company might be affected by how environmentally friendly a provider's practicesare, as well as how safe its methods are around your family and pets.
Safety
Your pest control expert should be able to discuss the safety of all pesticides they plan to use. They should be able to explain whether the pesticides are low toxicity or non-toxic; if they are not, they should explain what safety precautions they plan to use to protect you, your family, and your pets. Any pesticides that pose above a minimum risk should be registered with the EPA.
Treatment Methods
Nowadays, many companies are exploring more environmentally friendly pest management that can be implemented before (or instead of) chemical pesticides. Many follow the practice of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which goes as follows:
- Identify the source of the pest problem and determine whether immediate action is needed.
- Decide on the safest course of action.
- Manage the pest problem using a combination of physical, biological, mechanical, and cultural controls.
- Employ chemical controls only when required, and always with other techniques for effective long-term pest management.
- Evaluate outcomes and continue with additional pest control as needed.
Common Household Pests in Atlanta
Some pests are more common than others. In Atlanta, common pests to be on the lookout for include the following:
- Moths: If you've been noticing holes in your clothing or linens, you may have moths in your house. Moths are often found in dark places like closets, and are more commonly found in warmer places (like Atlanta).
- Fleas: Fleas typically prefer warmer weather (which can make them a real nuisance in Atlanta) and often get into your home by hiding in pet fur.
- Spiders: Spiders usually prefer moist, dark places and are often found in basements or attics.
- Mice: If you have mice, you may notice droppings around your house, or things like chewed wires. Frequently, mice are found in places where food is kept or in attics.
- Bed bugs: Bed bug infestations can be very hard to get rid of, so we strongly recommend calling a professional as soon as possible. Bed bugs are found throughout Georgia, and can infest not only your bedsheets, but also other furniture and even your wallpaper.