When researching the pest control service providers in your area, you’ll want to cover your bases by asking potential pest control providers the right questions. Without a thorough investigation, you may discover your provider isn’t trained in the types of exterminations you require, subjecting your home to more infestations.
To avoid the unexpected, Moxie Pest Control recommends asking the following questions to make sure you’re well-prepared for your service appointment.
Do you require a contract?
Depending on the severity of your pest problem, you might want to consider a contract-based service.
A contract-based service may be a better fit depending on where you live and if there are recurring pest-related problems. For some homes, infestations might only pop-up occasionally. In these cases, one treatment may be enough. Evaluate your risk of exposure to these insects and vermin to determine whether or not a contract-based service is needed to keep these pesky nuisances at bay.
What’s the penalty for breaking the contract if I’m not happy?
Like any contract-based job or service, there are terms that both parties must agree to, including payment options, timeframe, the scope of the work, and a company’s customer satisfaction guarantee/money-back guarantee—if one or both exist. A company should draft clauses that clearly state the repercussions if one party doesn’t keep up its end of the bargain.
Whether its a customer refusing to pay or a company denying reimbursement, it’s a sad state of affairs when one party cannot satisfy the contract to the other party’s liking. In the world of business, dealing with these situations is inevitable. To avoid legal battles, both parties involved should be made aware of the consequences if they fail to hold up their end.
Why are you the best pest control provider in the area?
You might be debating between a few different providers in your area. Asking this question will likely elicit details about other competing pest control providers, so you can narrow your options. Using this tactic, you can glean information on what services a pest control service provider doesn’t offer that may a valuable component of your pest-control strategy.
With some light negotiating, a service provider may be able to maneuver around the company’s menu of services and meet your pest control needs, despite what may be advertised on their site. At the end of the day, a paying customer will be prioritized over a minor technicality.
Though some homeowners dread the process of recruiting a pest control provider You might be able to score a special deal just by asking questions. Most companies are willing to offer discounts or coupons if it means on-boarding a new client.
What makes you different from other pest control companies?
With so many options for pest control services in even a five-mile radius, most of them will likely offer comparable services and treatments. How then can a customer differentiate between the two companies?
As you weigh the pros and cons and scan online reviews, you may notice that one pest control provider ranks higher in customer service and quality assurance than other providers in the area. To stand out from the competition, a pest control provider may offer a unique service that’s well worth the price. Other providers may rely on competitive pricing to set them apart from other neighborhood pest control services.
Whatever the case may be, you’ll need to factor in a pest control provider’s pricing, their menu of services, payment methods, service locations, etc. Stepping into a business relationship blindly can cost you hundreds of dollars in hidden fees. Know who you’re doing business with.
How often do you schedule regular pest control treatments?
This question will help you nail down how often treatments will be required. There are several different options available to you, depending on certain factors, but budgeting for regular visits is a great way to maintain your home’s pest-free state and keep your mind at ease.
Even if routine visits don’t seem necessary, there may be pests lurking around just out of sight. Regular treatments guarantee that these invaders don’t gnaw on your home’s structure or terrorize your loved ones. Unmanaged pests may result in property damage, food-borne illness, or other ailments.
How much is a house call if I have an emergency?
If an emergency pest problem arises, it can be financially and mentally-taxing to the affected residents. Asking this question will arm you with the knowledge that’ll prepare you for any curve ball thrown your way. After an exhausting workday, the last thing you’ll want to come home to is a pest infestation. Unfortunately, along with the expense of pest control, a homeowner will have to worry about the cost of the emergency services on top of the actual infestation itself. Don’t let an infestation blindside you. Allocate part of your pest control budget for emergency calls, if your home is susceptible to pests that can inflict serious damage such as termites or poisonous species of spiders.
Are your products safe around kids and pets?
Pesticides are not chemicals that should be taken lightly, so you’ll need to be informed on all possible negative side effects your household pets or young children may experience if they’re exposed to toxic chemicals. The right pest control service will value the health and safety of your home’s residents.
Though pest control isn’t intended to endanger any animal or person occupying your residence, accidents still happen. Express your concerns to your pest control provider and inquire about specific safety precautions. For example, a large dog might not be at the same risk of exposure as a small dog. To avoid contamination, a pest control provider may block off treated areas temporarily to keep all of your family members safe and sound.
Do you offer organic pesticides?
Organic pest control is important factor to consider, especially when pesticides contain harmful chemicals and substances that could threaten the health of your loved ones. In your pest control efforts, you won’t want to replace one problem (pests) with another problem (harmful pesticides), so your provider should review your pesticide’s ingredients list with you.
Note that organic pesticides are much better for the environment than chemical-based ones. With an eco-friendly pest strategy, you’ll feel better about using them, especially when you don’t have to compromise on results to protect the environment.