When it comes to beating pests, cheaper service isn’t always better. One of the easiest ways to locate a reputable pest contractor is through referrals from local family or friends. It’s likely that others in a particular region have had similar pest problems.
Review a pest contractor’s track record. As with any contractor, checking references is useful. “Unfortunately, it's possible for someone to get a pest control license without having much experience or stability,” notes Michael Alexander, owner of Paramount Pest Control. Beware of paying upfront for ongoing pest control service without confirming the contractor’s reliability. “Don’t be pressured into signing an ongoing service contract if you don’t feel you need one.”
Confirm the contractor’s license is current. Make sure the license is related to the kind of work that’s required. A Maintenance Gardener license from the Department of Pesticide Regulation, for example, only allows for limited use of specific materials. Separate licenses are required for agricultural and residential or commercial structural services. Licenses are renewed every two or three years, depending on the type.
Other sources for researching contractors include the Structural Pest Control Board (www.pestboard.ca.gov), National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or Pest Control Operators of California (PCOC). “Members of these organizations adhere to a unified Code of Ethics when working with customers,” says Mr. Alexander. PCOC has a website with good resources for consumers and programs to mediate complaints (www.pcoc.org).
