Tips When Hiring Exterminators
We are now in the middle of termite season and many south Florida homeowners will be in the need of exterminating and other pest control services. There are many treatments and many pest control companies that offer a myriad of services. And with those choices, it can be confusing when comparing these services. Here are a few reminders when employing pest control companies at any time of the year:
- Always deal with experienced and licensed pest control companies. Always ask to see their state and county licenses.
- Only deal with pest control companies that are members of national, state or local pest management associations.
- If a guarantee is given for their service, get this in writing, know what it covers, how long it lasts, and as an owner what must you do to keep it in force? In addition, what kind of continuing control, prevention and management will be necessary for this condition not to happen again?
- Beware of any exterminators or pest control companies that offer bargains that sound too good to be true.
- Ask friends, neighbors and other associations to recommend pest control companies that they have used successfully.
- Be aware of any exterminator who comes to your home uninvited and offers to give your house a free inspection for pests. This is a red flag! They may try to scare you into authorizing immediate and costly treatments.
- If a deposit is required or a sizable amount of money is involved, get quotes from several pest control companies. Evaluate and compare each bid.
- Professional pest control companies will be glad to provide you with their knowledge and experience in dealing with this situation.
- Homeowners can call state pest control regulatory agencies for information regarding the status of pest management companies. In Florida the regulatory agency is the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Find out more information on their website at http://www.doacs.state.fl.us/index.html.
- Before signing any contract, be sure to fully understand the nature of the pest and service to be exterminated, the extent of the infestation, and the work necessary to solve the problem.
- Also, get copies of the pest control company’s liability insurance and workmen’s compensation insurance to cover any damages to your home or furnishings during treatment.
- Finally, check with your association or Management Company if any permissions/forms are required to get this work done.
At the time that a problem is discovered, panic may result, and of course you will want to take speedy action to eliminate the situation. However, follow these tips to avoid further problems and future unnecessary costs when dealing and contracting with pest control companies.
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