Readers, allow us to share a true pest-control story in order to introduce the topic of what you should look for when hiring a pest-control management service. There was once a young couple who purchased a fixer-upper home they believed was pest free. Unfortunately, it was not, and they quickly discovered the fact when cockroaches started showing up around the property. In the kitchen. In the dining room. Even in the cupboards.
The depth of their problem became apparent when the couple brewed a pot of tea and sat down to discuss the issue — only to find a small roach floating in the brew. They knew they needed to hire a pest-control service ASAP, and any service would be better than simply dealing with such a horrible infestation, right?
Not quite. Perhaps you find yourself facing a persistent pest problem, perhaps even one that puts the value of your home or business at risk. Maybe you simply want the problem to go away. That’s completely understandable but know something else first: Hiring the wrong pest-control professional can do more damage in the end.
In this post, we will explain everything you should ask when hiring an insect-control service and why Smithereen Pest Management Services has remained a trusted company for over a century.
What Sets You Apart From Other Pest Control Companies?
One of the first things that you should consider when looking for pest control is a company’s level of experience, its professional pedigree. To drive home the importance of this fact, just consider how many pest-control businesses exist in the United States. According to Consumer Affairs, more than 27,000 of them are going strong, and that number is expected to continue growing over the coming years. Sad to say, it’s not particularly difficult for a handful of people to put together a fly-by-night pest-control outfit that may look professional from the outside — but that provides anything but professional service.
You have several options for determining the excellence of a particular pest-control company, many of which you’re likely aware of. Searching for reviews on social-media sites such as Facebook or Yelp is a start. More important, though, is examining the company’s history. If a particular outfit seems small and has only been around for a few years, consider that somewhat of a warning sign. But if a company has existed for an extensive period, maintained a clientele, and thrived, that’s a definite plus. Here at Smithereen, we have done business since 1888 and have a strong, multi-state presence.
When considering what differentiates one pest-control business from another, you should also examine professional memberships and certifications. For instance, the Integrated Pest Management Institute of America has certified Smithereen to provide Green Shield Service, an environmentally friendly approach that eliminates pests while protecting pets, people, and the wider world. And that’s far from our only membership. You can read more about our extensive list of professional associations here.
What Services Are Provided?
Did you know that Chicago deals with more rats than any other American city? Similarly, Baltimore has the most troubles with bedbugs. And New Orleans has more cockroaches than any place else. It’s surely no surprise to you that certain places struggle more with some kinds of pests than others. But have you thought to ask whether or not a pest-control company’s disinfestation programs will solve your particular problem?
Here at Smithereen, our more than a century of experience means we’ve developed effective approaches to eliminating cockroaches, ants, mice, rats, spiders, mosquitoes, and bed bugs. We also understand how to deal with uncommon problems such as wildlife. Smithereen prides itself on knowing how to safely remove raccoons, pigeons, squirrels, skunks, and more. No matter your issue, we can handle it.
Are the Exterminators Insured?
Every pest-control professional likes to say that he or she provides safe service. The truth of the matter, though, is that many outfits use overly harsh pesticides in an unsafe manner. That’s why you read horror stories about consumers suffering allergic reactions, pets falling ill, and worse. That is also why it’s so important for exterminators to maintain insurance coverage and to have proper licensing.
At Smithereen, we are bonded, insured, and fully licensed as is required by our home state of Illinois (although it is far from the only state that we serve). To learn more about our licensing and coverage, please contact our main office at (800) 336-3500.
What Chemical Products Do You Use/Recommend?
Many people feel uncomfortable about the use of chemicals in and around their homes, and rightly so. Even correct usage of certain agents can lead to breathing ailments, unpleasant reactions, and adverse reactions in household pets. Beware of any company that refuses to take your concerns seriously and know that Smithereen’s technicians will happily discuss any chemicals used in your particular treatment. However, the following are a few general principals you should know about how we handle pest control and pesticides.
First, our Integrated Pest Management approach means that we seek to reduce chemical remediation whenever and wherever possible. Instead of spraying product everywhere, we use more minimal approaches such as baits and traps, matching the approach to the pest.
Additionally, we also seek to understand the source of the infestation. Insects and rodents don’t materialize from thin air. There’s virtually always some kind of problem area that inevitably leads to an infestation. Part of our job involves identifying those issues and addressing them.
Finally, that solution-seeking approach helps prevent further issues — which means that fewer chemicals get used overall.
What Post-Treatment Services Are Offered?
Regarding that solution-seeking approach, Smithereen’s post-treatment services are an essential part of preventing future infestations. Once we understand what you’re facing and have your current pest problem under control, we craft a prevention plan specially tailored to your specific situation. Pests tend to be tenacious, and we strive to best them at every point. Every reputable pest-control company should provide post-treatment services. Many, though, do not, waiting instead for a crisis to occur before they act.
To learn more about how Smithereen can help your home or business, visit our Contact Us page or call us at (800) 336-3500. Your gain is our goal, and we want to be your trusted partner in pest prevention!