You’ve discovered an unwelcome pest problem in your home. Before reaching for the strongest bug spray you can find, it’s wise to contact a professional exterminator in Monroe CT who can properly identify the pest and create a customized treatment plan. However, not all pest control companies are created equal. You’ll want to ask the right questions upfront to ensure you choose a reliable and experienced exterminator. Here are some important questions to consider asking when hiring an exterminator.
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What Types of Pests Do You Treat?
The first thing you’ll want to inquire about is what type of pests the exterminator has experience handling. Exterminators often specialize in treating specific species such as termites, bed bugs, cockroaches, wildlife, and more. Make sure to describe the pest you’re dealing with and ask if the exterminator has in-depth knowledge of its behaviors and effective treatment methods. This will give you confidence they can effectively eliminate your pest problem.
Are You Licensed and Insured?
Don’t forget to verify professional credentials. Most states require pest control technicians to hold a license demonstrating they’ve met specific educational and experiential requirements. You should ask for details on their specific license number and status. Also, make sure to ask if the company carries general liability insurance as well as coverage for any property damage or accidents caused during service. Reputable exterminators will happily provide documentation on licenses and insurance if you request them.
What Is Your Inspection Process?
A thorough inspection should be the first step taken by any pest management professional. This allows them to properly identify the pest, pinpoint all current activity areas, and assess the extent of the infestation. Get details on the exterminator’s inspection protocol such as the tools and detection methods used. Also, ask if they will provide a written report detailing all findings and recommended next steps after the inspection is complete.
What Products Do You Use?
You’ll also want information on the types of pesticides, baits, traps and any other products the exterminator uses to eliminate pests. Inquire about the active ingredients used and if the products are environmentally-friendly. Ideally, you want an exterminator who seeks the least toxic methods first rather than using strong pesticides as a first approach. Also, get confirmation the products they use are EPA-approved for residential use. This ensures proper safety testing has been conducted prior to the pesticide entering the marketplace.
Can You Provide References?
Reputable exterminators should have no shortage of satisfied customer references they can provide upon request. Speaking with previous clients can offer invaluable insights on things like the technician’s expertise, professionalism, timeliness and communication style throughout the pest elimination process. Verified online customer reviews can also help, but phone references are preferred. Take the time to call references and ask specific questions such as if the exterminator achieved desired results, if any unexpected issues occurred, and why they would recommend the company.
Do You Offer Any Guarantees?
Discover what kind of customer satisfaction guarantees are offered. Many exterminators provide guarantees that state they will come back and re-treat a pest issue if it persists or reoccurs within a certain timeframe after their services. Common timeframes range between 30 to 90 days from the initial treatment. Be wary of extremely lengthy guarantees exceeding 180 days, however. While tempting, this can indicate the extermination methods used may be ineffective at fully eliminating the root of the problem.
How Much Does Your Service Cost?
While you don’t want to choose an extermination company based on price alone, cost is a factor for most homeowners. If a company’s price seems dramatically lower than the competition, consider why. Make sure to ask why any fee/charge you don’t understand is in place. Ask an exterminator if there is any extra charge if any problem should arise. Get the whole price of treatment up front. It will save you frustration.
Finding a qualified, reputable exterminator doesn’t have to be stressful. Arm yourself with this list of key questions to ask potential candidates before selecting a pest control company. This ensures you partner with a true professional capable of safely eliminating your pest issue. You can rest easily knowing your home will soon be free of troublesome insects, rodents or wildlife. Then, if the need arises down the road, you’ll already have a trusted resource for pest control solutions in CT.
