Check Pest Control Firms' Credentials, Reputation, BBB Advises

Warm weather can bring out the bugs, no doubt about it. And if they come into your house, you may want to get rid of them pronto.

The Better Business Bureau advises consumers to take a deep breath and do some research before hiring an exterminator. Make sure the firm you hire is licensed, and check BBB Business Reviews to see if they've had any complaints.

The BBB nationwide took more than 3,100 complaints against pest control companies last year, including 37 filed with the St. Louis BBB. Consumers check up on the companies more than 786,000 times - a move that could have saved many of them some grief.

Often the source of a complaint is a misunderstanding between the consumer and the business about what the company is going to do in the consumer's home or the nature of a guarantee. Some contracts include repeated treatments if the first one is effective, but many do not.

BBB tips on hiring pest control firms includes:

1. Check them out. Look for pest control professionals and companies that are members of national, state or local pest management associations. Always check out the business’ BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org. 
2. Always deal with a qualified and licensed pest management company. Ask to see the license or other credentials of the pest control professional that comes to solve your pest problem.
3. Take your time. If a sizable amount of money is involved, get bids from several pest management companies. You are paying for professional knowledge as well as skillful application of pesticides, so look for someone whose judgment you can trust.
4. Understand before you sign. Before signing a contract, be sure to understand the nature of the household pest to be exterminated, the extent of the infestation and the work necessary to solve the problem. Find out if the pest control company has liability insurance to cover any damages to your house or furnishings during treatment. If a guarantee is given, know what it covers, how long it lasts, what you must do to keep it in force and what kind of continuing control, prevention and management are necessary.
5. Resist high-pressure sales tactics. Beware of companies that offer bargains that sound too good to be true. Be wary of companies that come to your home uninvited and offer to give your house a free inspection for pests. They may try to scare you into authorizing immediate and costly treatments.

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