How to Work With a Pest Management Professional
Don't risk your home's structural integrity with "do-it-yourself" termite control. Choose a licensed or certified pest control professional who's familiar with the most effective termite treatments available.
- Select a pest management expert as carefully as you would any other service professional you invite into your home, such as a plumber or electrician.
- There's no need to panic or to rush into a termite control program, even if you know your house is infested. Termites work slowly, so take the time necessary to find an experienced, qualified termite-control professional.
- Obtain at least three estimates from different companies before signing a contract for services.
Understanding Termite Contracts
When you choose a company, you may be asked to sign a work contract or service agreement.
- Make sure you understand the company's obligations under the contract and the benefits available to you.
- Remember the agreement is only as sound as the company that offers it to you.
- If the service agreement only vaguely refers to termite control, be suspicious.
- Determine whether and how much you'll be charged annually for the service agreement.
- Ask what actions, like fixing a leaky roof or cleaning gutters, you must take to keep the service agreement in force.
- Ask if the company will notify you when inspections are due.
Warranties
Many pest control professionals also offer a warranty on their work. There are typically two types:
- A "re-treat" warranty covers the cost to treat your home again should termites return.
- A "damage repair" warranty covers the cost to re-treat, plus repairs of any damage caused by returning termites.
- Be sure to understand the implications of both warranty types and select the one you're most comfortable with.
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