When you discover the presence of pests in your home, your first response will probably be to get rid of them ASAP. While speedy action is good, it’s important to make sure to hire the right pest control company—both for your current issues and for the prevention of future ones. Here are a few questions you should ask before they get to work on your home.

What to Ask When Choosing a Pest Control Company

Do you offer a free, written quote?

A reputable company will be confident in their experience, standing in the community, and competitive rates. For this reason, a free estimate is a gesture to the customer that they’re not out to make a quick buck whether or not you decide to hire them.

How will you determine a treatment plan?

Ask about the type of pests that are in the home and what stage the infestation is in. For insects, are they in the egg or adult stage or somewhere in between?

Ask how long the pests have been established, if they can be eradicated with one treatment, and if they will come back. Find out how they will decide on the kind and amount of poison or other strategies.

The exterminator should be able to tell you all of these things after an inspection of the home. If their battle plan doesn’t sound confident or easy to understand, get clarification or seek out another professional.

Are the treatments safe for kids and pets?

It’s essential to find out what types of extermination methods they will use and if they’re safe for animals and children—and you. Most modern treatments are safe, but ask the exterminator to explain why theirs are and if you can stay in the home while the work is done.

If you have exotic pets or immune-compromised family members, be sure to talk to the technician about safety concerns in these situations.

Will you have to come back?

Certain types of pests are just endemic to a particular geographical location. In some cases, such as with cockroaches, it’s unrealistic to assume that you won’t have to have annual treatments to help keep common pests away.

If an exterminator is making promises that sound too good to be true, steer clear. It’s likely that after dealing with a current infestation, you’ll need a plan of treatment to prevent more pests from moving in down the road. 

If you need pest control services in the Bessemer, AL, area, choose Aardwolf Termite & Pest Control Inc. They offer residential or commercial treatments with pet- and kid-friendly products for most types of pests, including termites. The family-owned and -operated company offers free inspections and estimates along with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call (205) 338-6615 to request a quote or visit them online to learn more about their services.