Summertime means pest control
Living in the South, insects such as mosquitoes, fire ants, spiders and cockroaches always seem to find a way to sneak into homes no matter how hard a homeowner tries to keep them out.
Summer weather can sometimes exacerbate the problem.
When your pest problem gets too big for a fly swatter, it may be time to call in a professional service.
The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas offers tips on how to find a trustworthy exterminator to make sure your house is pest-free for the summer:
Do your research. Evaluate pest control professionals and services that are members of national, state or local associations. Check out BBB reports on pest control companies and also check BBB’s Accredited Business Directory at BBBHouston.org to find reliable pest control services in your area.
Check licensing. Verify licenses or other credentials of the pest control professional who comes to solve your pest problem. In Texas, pest control companies are licensed by the Texas Department of Agriculture, and licensing information can be verified on its website at http://www.texasagriculture.gov.
Get estimates. Get bids from at least three pest control businesses, and make sure you are comparing the same services. BBB provides a free Request A Quote service to make it easier to gather estimates from local BBB Accredited Businesses. Read the contract thoroughly. Before signing a contract, be sure to understand the nature of the household pests 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 and how long it will take to implement the treatment.
Know the products used. Familiarize yourself with the methods and/ or materials that will be used to treat the infestation. If a business suggests pesticides or chemicals to troubleshoot your issue, ask for the name of the products and/or to see the label. Your family — and furry loved ones — could be impacted by the process.
Check insurance. Find out if the pest control company has liability insurance to cover any damages to your house or furnishings during treatment. Avoid high-pressure sales
tactics. Beware of businesses that offer bargains that sound too good to be true. Use caution with businesses that come to your home uninvited and offer a free inspection for pests or press you for immediate and/or costly treatments.