Start the search for an exterminator by asking friends, family, co-workers and neighbors for recommendations. While these personal recommendations are not perfect, they do provide a way to judge the ability of the company to provide good customer service. They also provide a way to judge the effectiveness of the pest control methods and techniques used by the company. If you can’t find at least 3 recommendations, check with a referral service that includes recommendations, such as Angie’s list.

As a general rule, you shouldn’t ask for a pest control estimate over the phone. Many questions about an exterminator can only be answered when you meet them in person. How is their appearance and manner? You’re looking for a professional. Were they on time? If not, did they call ahead to notify you? How was the appearance of their vehicle? You’re looking for clean, professional and well marked. Was their manner helpful and informative or did they use high pressure sales tactics?

Ask enough questions to allow you to understand each company. How long has each exterminator been in business? Are they licensed with the state? Are they willing to provide documentation to these items? Ask about their technicians. Have they been screened? How much training do they have? Typically each technician is required to attend annual training.

Several other clues exist to help you find a professional exterminator. Insurance is one of these clues. Ask the company if they have insurance and if they can supply you with an insurance certificate. If they don’t have insurance or can’t furnish such a certificate, avoid them like the plague. Does the firm belong to any professional or pest control trade associations? These organizations offer benefits to their members like educational opportunities.

Ask how the company typically solves pest control problems. This is an important question. A professional exterminator will not limit their answer to pesticides alone. A knowledgeable representative will also discuss ways to prevent infestations, such as eliminating sources of food and shelter and ways to prevent pests from entering the home.

How will the firm react if you have a sudden insect infestation? You would expect the company to say they would come in quickly to knock down the infestation. Ask what steps they would take to insure the infestation does not reoccur. The exterminator should be able to talk about the life cycle of pests and what they will do to break the life cycle and prevent re-infestation.

Finally, ask about their pricing. How do they compare with other exterminators you’ve interviewed? The point of asking for several bids is to learn enough about each company to make a reasonable comparison. While price is certainly a factor, it’s not the only factor. It may not even be the most important factor. Also compare the companies on the basis of how professional they are, how knowledgeable they are and what level of customer service you believe they can provide. Understanding these factors will allow you to make a reasonable decision.

Florida Bug Inspectors is a leading Tampa exterminator with over 20 years experience solving tough pest control problems. If you have flea, roach, ant, or termite control problems, contact Florida Bug Inspectors.