Pest-control companies, products crucial to homeowners
With concern circulating about the Zika virus and possible spreading to the U.S., residents throughout the greater Houston area may be especially concerned.
Accordingly, consumers may want to consider hiring a pest-control business to perform routine maintenance in and around their home to help aid in the fight against mosquito breeding and intrusion by other pests. They also may search for products to offer additional protection for their homes and families.
The Better Business Bureau of Houston and South Texas offers tips when hiring a pest-control company and when considering the purchase of various mosquito repellents on the market: » Research several businesses. Evaluate pest-control professionals and companies that sell pest control products. Always check out the business’ BBB Business Review at BBBHouston.org to check out the company’s track record and customer reviews.
» Check licensing. Verify license or other credentials of the pest-control professional, which comes to solve your pest problem. Pest control businesses are licensed the Texas Department of Agriculture, and you may contact that agency for information via its website, https://texasagriculture.gov/.
» Get multiple estimates. Obtain bids from several pest management companies, and make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Buy value, not price. Beware of companies that offer bargains that sound too good to be true. Use caution with companies that use high-pressure tactics by coming to your home uninvited and offering a free inspection for pests or pressing you for im- mediate and/or costly treatments.
» Review the contract. Before signing a contract, be sure to fully understand the nature of the household pest(s) to be exterminated, the extent of the infestation and the work necessary to solve the problem. Make sure all guarantees are clearly stated in writing with details about the service agreement. Be sure you understand what the company will do if pests continue or come back after treatment.
» Ask about insurance. Find out if the pest-control company has liability insurance to cover any damages to your house or furnishings during treatment. » Verify details concerning warranties. If a guarantee is given, know what it covers; how long it lasts; what you must do to keep it in force; and what kind of continuing control, prevention and management are necessary. » Be skeptical of new products claiming Zika protection. Some businesses may claim their products offer additional protection, specifically for Zika-carrying mosquitoes; any claim should be backed up by scientific proof. Experts advise there are a number of reputable insect repellents that can provide protection, including those that contain DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists several brand names on its website. Also, be cautious as scammers often follow the headlines to tout their phony products and phish for your personal information while playing upon your fears.