Hiring a pest control company is an important decision for homeowners. To ensure that you choose a reputable and professional company, Clark, your friendly pest, mosquito, termite, and rodent control expert, encourages you to research and ask questions before you sign on the dotted line.

What questions should you ask when doing your research? Below are a few suggestions:

• Are you licensed and insured?

  Make sure that the pest control company is properly licensed and insured. This will help protect you in case of accidents or damage while pest control services are being performed.

• What is your experience and reputation?

  Ask about the company's experience in the industry and ask for references or reviews from previous clients. A well-established reputation can provide confidence in its services. A quick call to the Better Business Bureau or a scan of verified online reviews will help your research.

• What types of services do you offer, and do you specialize in certain pests?
  Different pest control companies may specialize in specific types of pests. Make sure that the company you choose has experience and expertise in dealing with the pest issue you’re facing, whether it’s rodents, insects, termites, or wildlife.

• What is your approach to pest control?
  

  Understand the company's pest control methods, including whether it uses chemicals, traps, or integrated pest management (IPM) techniques. Ask about the safety of its methods, its training, and any potential health risks to your family or pets.

• Do you offer guarantees or warranties?

  Inquire about any guarantees or warranties on the company’s services. This can provide peace of mind when you know that your pest control provider will return if your pest problem persists within a specified period.

• What is the cost and payment structure?

  Request a detailed estimate that includes the cost of inspection, treatment, and any follow-up services. Ask about payment options and whether the company offers a free initial inspection.

• Can you provide a written contract?

  Always insist on a written contract that outlines the scope of work, pricing, treatment schedule, and any guarantees. Carefully review the contract before you sign it.

• Are your technicians certified?

  Pest control technicians should be trained and certified by the state of California or Nevada, depending on where you live. Ask about their qualifications and if they are members of any professional organizations.

• Do you use eco-friendly or pet-safe products?

  If you have concerns about the environment or the safety of your pets, ask about the pest control company's use of eco-friendly or pet-safe products.

• Can you provide references?

  Request references from previous customers who have had similar pest issues. Contact these references to inquire about their experiences with the company.

• How will you handle follow-up visits?

  Understand the company's policy regarding follow-up visits to monitor pest activity and address any recurring pest problems.

• Do you offer preventative services?

  Ask if the company offers preventative pest control measures, like rodent exclusion, to help avoid future infestations. Prevention can be cost-effective in the long run.

• What is the timeline for treatment and results?

  Get an estimate of how long it will take to resolve your pest issue and what you can expect in terms of results.

• Can you explain your pest identification process?

  A good pest control company should be able to accurately identify the type of pest causing the problem before starting treatment. Ask about their process for identifying pests.

• Do you provide emergency services?
  Find out if the company provides emergency services in case you encounter a sudden and severe pest problem – for example, a stinging insect nest under the eaves of your house – that requires immediate attention.

By asking these questions and carefully evaluating the responses, you can make an informed decision when hiring a pest control company to address your home's pest issues.

Clark Pest Control has decades of experience protecting homes from a wide array of pests. Call California’s trusted pest control expert at (800) WE-NEED-YOU (936-3339) or email us at clarkcares@clarkpest.com if you have any questions or concerns about pests in and around your home.

Until next time, the pest management professionals at Clark Pest Control thank you for helping to keep unwanted pests out of your home and yard.