With Houston’s mild climate, insect pests can be a problem year round. Even in urban areas wildlife pests like raccoons, squirrels, birds, rats and mice can invade our homes. You may need help controlling these pests from a pest control professional. There are several things to look for when selecting a quality company that can meet your needs in a timely and professional manner.
First look for the company’s qualifications:
- Does the company have a current license? Don’t just take their word for it. You can check with the Texas Structural Pest Control Department
- Does the company have a training program to keep their technicians up to date on regulatory changes, new products, health and safety issues?
- Do they have a healthy house program that utilizes Integrated Pest Management techniques?
- Are the technicians licensed to perform the work as outlined?
Next you should look for the experience:
- How many years has the company been in business?
- Do they have long-term employees that understand pest problems and can identify pest species?
- Does the company have experience treating the pests you are targeting?
- Are the newly hired technicians trained by a supervisor?
The reputation of the company is important:
- Ask family members, friends, co workers or neighbors for their recommendation
- Contact the state regulatory agency for information on any violations, complaints, or unresolved issues
- When choosing a company ask for references
- Does the company have a safety plan in place?
- Is the company insured and bonded?
How is the customer service?:
- Does the company care about you when scheduling the service? Do they just set the routes and perform service whether you are there or not?
- Do the employees listen to your concerns and address them with care and knowledge?
- Do they provide you with customized service by calling ahead to let you know when the technician will arrive?
- Are the technicians careful and respectful of your property? (i.e.) putting on boot covers to protect your flooring
- Will they schedule you with the same technician if requested?
What value does the company provide?:
- Will the company provide a written estimate for services?
- Will they give you a general idea of pricing before they come out to address the problem? Be aware there are unscrupulous operators that will not provide pricing over the phone and insist on coming out in person. They add on services that you may not want or need
- Do they offer free estimates for services such as bed bugs, termites or wildlife, which cannot be priced adequately over the phone?
- Do they offer specials or coupons you can take advantage of? Be sure to check the website, since you may find offers for the services you are looking for.
- Are the services guaranteed? Be sure to ask the terms of the guarantee
- Does the company ask you to commit to a long-term service? Is there a penalty for terminating the contract early?
