Pest infestation can turn your life into a nightmare. Uninvited house guests such as rodents and insects spread disease, damage your home, and lower its market value.
This is why householders look for pest control specialists who can provide a cost-effective, long-term solution.
And finding a trustworthy pest control company gives you peace of mind that your pest problem will be dealt with efficiently and safely.
Hundreds of businesses operate within the UK pest management industry – worth £714.7m in 2022 and expected to continue growing.
But what should you look for in a pest control company? How can you be sure you can trust them? You’ll find out here as we look at the crucial factors to consider when choosing pest management services.
Credentials
Reliable pest control companies will hold accreditations from the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), the leading industry governing body.
Look for the BPCA logo on the company’s website or paperwork. Membership proves the business carries out pest control effectively and safely. The BPCA insists on the highest standards in pest management, with comprehensive codes of practice.
You should also check whether a company’s pest control technicians are qualified by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH).
The company should also be able to show that it conforms with Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations, designed to safeguard people from exposure to hazardous materials.
Health and safety
Because of the nature of their work, pest controllers should be trained in health and safety procedures including risk assessment, and understand legislation governing pest control methods.
If someone is introducing insecticides, rodenticides or pest traps into your home, you need to be sure the work is carried out safely, especially where children, pets and non-target wildlife may be at risk.
Experience
Length of time the company has been operating and level of experience of technicians is important when you’re weighing up pest control firms.
If a business has been in the competitive pest control industry for several years, it’s a fair bet they know what they’re doing.
And more experienced operatives know the best methods to eradicate pests and minimise the risk of future infestation problems.
Local knowledge
Pest controllers with local knowledge are familiar with common pest-related issues and trends in your area.
They will have a deep insight into behaviours of the pests that are causing a problem in your home and know the best techniques to deal with them.
Local pest control companies are also able to offer customised, reasonably priced services.
Reputation
The best local pest control companies are well respected, with a solid standing in the local community.
This reputation is reflected by what people are saying on online review sites like Checkatrade, Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google business reviews.
In addition, you can ask family, friends and neighbours about local pest control companies they’ve used and how satisfied they were with the results.
A good pest control company will feature customer testimonials on its website, which will also help you gauge the reputation of the business.
Customer service
Good pest management businesses aim for total customer satisfaction, meeting or exceeding clients’ expectations.
They do this by providing:
- Honest, professional advice.
- An explanation of how the pest control solution will work.
- Prompt action to address the problem.
- Friendly service from an approachable, friendly team.
- Answers to any particular concerns.
Value for money
If a pest control business gives you a quote that seems ridiculously low, it could be a sign they’ll cut corners, using materials and techniques that turn out to be ineffective. And sometimes there may be hidden costs.
When considering quotes and value for money, bear in mind that quality of materials and workmanship should be a priority.
Services on offer
Does the company offer the specific pest control service you need?
Not all pest control companies are able to deal with all types of pests. You can quickly find out whether a company can handle your particular problem by looking at the list of pest control services on their website.
Why householders choose Pests, Birds and Bugs Ltd
Pests, Birds and Bugs Ltd provides pest control services for homes – and businesses – throughout Hampshire and Dorset.
The company – a local, family-run business with many years of experience – is accredited by the British Pest Control Association and all its technicians are qualified by the Royal Society for Public Health.
Our highly targeted pest control solutions are extremely effective while protecting the environment, people’s safety, and creatures that aren’t pests.
We‘ve established a strong reputation based on:
- Customised pest control solutions.
- Affordable services.
- Reliability.
- Punctuality.
- Courtesy.
- Quality workmanship.
Call us on 07388 892414 or contact us online for a free quote.