Hiring an Exterminator: What to Know – So, you have a pest problem…now what? Maybe you’ve already tried the store-bought products but they just haven’t worked. Or perhaps you’ve tried setting traps but those critters keep evading your elaborate set-ups. Now it’s time to call in a professional. Hiring the right exterminator is key, so here are some steps to making the right choice.
Choose a professional with experience: You want someone who has dealt extensively with your type of pest before. They have the tools and know-how to eliminate the problem quickly. By bringing in a pro to get to the root of the problem fast, you’re preventing further costly damage from occurring. Each day, termites, mice and squirrels trapped in your house can cause a multitude of damage to your wiring, insulation, woodwork, food, walls and much more. If you waste time trying to rid your home of insects like cockroaches or bed bugs for example, and you don’t have the right tools to do it, they will just keep breeding and spreading.
Ask about the company: In addition to experience, make sure the exterminator is licensed, bonded, and insured. This will give you peace of mind in regards to quality work and warranties that can back up the job if the pests do indeed come back later.
Ask around and look at reviews: There are a ton of review sites out there, from Thumbtack to Yelp. Check them out, then ask your friends and family or go on social media sites to find out who everyone trusts.
Inquire about chemicals used: It’s inevitable that exterminators have to use some type of chemicals in many cases in order to successfully eliminate a pest problem. Know which precautions to take so that you’re prepared well ahead of time. Ask what the chemicals are, if you should leave the premises while treatment is going on, and then do what you can to keep your children and pets safe. A good exterminator will tell you all of this up front.
Find out about repeat visits: Sometimes it takes more than one treatment to rid your home of pests. Other times, some pests require repeat visits for preventive services.
Determine the clean-up protocol: Not every exterminator offers clean-up after the job. They should. Nobody wants to see rodent droppings left behind or chewed wiring, wood or insulation bits. A good pest control service will take the time to clean up the mess after treatment.
Ask about cost: The price tag will vary by type of pest, the size of the infestation, the kind of treatment needed, and how many. For example, with ants, most times all that’s needed is to spray the perimeter of the house and landscape lines; however, with fleas, it’s necessary to spray the whole property, the floors and under the sub-floors. Ask for an estimate when you call around and compare total costs with what’s included.
Cavanaugh’s Professional Termite and Pest Services would be happy to provide you with an estimate and answer any questions you may have. Call us today in Flanders at 973-584-2552, in Somerville at 908-730-6565, or in Freehold at 800-362-2282
