Since we are a web-based bed bug educational website, we thought it necessary to give tips on how to choose the best pest control company to treat you bed bug infestation.
Note: These questions may or may not apply when contracting a pest control company to treat general pests.
Is the company licensed and insured?
Although this question may seem basic, it is a very important question many people may forget to ask.
What experience does the company have treating bed bug infestations at structures or sites similar to your own?
Be sure to confirm that the pest control company has not only treated bed bug infestations before, but ones at structures similar to your own. As you learn more about bed bugs, you will realize that the way an infestation is treated varies by site and structure (ie. apartments, rowhomes, etc.).
Get references.
Make sure to not only ask if they have treated infestations at structures similar to your own, but to ask for references of the previous work they have done. Make sure to follow up with these references before taking further action with the pest control company.
What is the plan of action to handle infestations?
Do not hire a bed bug company unless they can provide you with some type of bed bug protocol for your type of structure beforehand and/or after the inspection.
Does the company endorse or require the use of encasements?
We believe that the most effective bed bug eradication plans require the use of encasements on all mattresses and box springs. For more then one reason, we believe this to greatly aid in managing and treating a bed bug infestation. [Click Here] to read more about the use of mattress and box spring encasements in proactive and reactive bed bug management plans.
Is the pricing a flat fee does it vary by job?
We think that every bed bug infestation is unique and should be treated that way. We may be wary of a flat fee pricing system because depending on the level of your infestation, the pricing may or may not be fair.
IPM
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an approach to pest management that involves using both chemical and non-chemical measures to manage pest infestations. This approach is used to manage and reduce the amount of pesticide damage done to the environment.
Vacuum and Steam.
The use of vacuum and steam has proven to be a very effective and useful tool in bed bug management program. This is usually part of an IPM protocol, and is an effective alternative to pesticides.
Educational Materials
A knowledgeable pest control company will provide you with educational materials educating you on the behavior and biology of bed bugs, and what you can do to aid in the eradication process. They should also provide you with directions, written or spoken, or what to do during treatments.