If you have a Gainesville lawn pest control problem that you do not want to handle on your own, you may decide to turn to a professional lawn fertilization company. How can you be sure that the lawn pest control company you hire will do a good job? Before you choose the pest control company for your Gainesville lawn, get answers to these questions:
1. Is the company licensed for lawn and ornamental pest treatments?
Both the Environmental Protection Agency and the State of Florida Agriculture Service issue state pest control licenses. Contact your local FDACS office to make sure the pest control operator’s license is current. Also, ask if the company’s employees are insured, meaning that the company reimburses you for any loss or damage caused by the lawn application.
2. Is the company willing and able to discuss the treatment proposed for your home?
Selecting a lawn pest service is just as important as selecting other professional services. Look for the same high degree of competence you would expect from a doctor or lawyer. Any company, including those advertising themselves as “green" or "organic" should be able to recommend a control program, including the Pests to be controlled. Extent of the problem. Active ingredient(s) in the pesticide chosen. Potential adverse health effects of the active ingredient. Form of the pesticide and application techniques. Special instructions to reduce your exposure to the pesticide (such as vacating the house, emptying the cupboards, and removing pets). Steps to take to minimize your lawn pest problems in the future.
3. Does the company have a good track record?
Don’t rely on the company salesperson to answer this question. Research the answer yourself. Check Google Reviws, Angie's List or Yelp. Call your State of Florida Pesticide Regulatory Agency and find out if they have received complaints about the company. Ask neighbors and friends if they have ever dealt with the company. Were they satisfied with the service they received?
4. Does the company have appropriate insurance?
Most lawn pest companies carry general liability insurance, including insurance for sudden and accidental pollution. Their insurance gives you a certain degree of protection should an accident occur while pesticides are being applied in your home. Contractors may also carry workmen’s compensation insurance, which can help protect you should one of their employees be injured while working in or around your apartment or house. Although most states do not require pest control companies to buy insurance, you should think twice before hiring a company that is not insured.
5. Does the company guarantee its work?
You should be skeptical about a company that does not guarantee its work. In addition, be sure to find out what you must do to keep your part of the bargain. For example, in the case of turf pest control treatments, the company’s guarantee may become invalid if you irrigate your lawn properly or mow at the proper height. The company may require follow up treatments as well.
6. Is the company affiliated with a professional lawn pest control association?
Professional associations – national, state of florida, or local in Gainesville, fl – keep members informed of new developments in lawn pest spraying methods, safety, training, research, and regulations. Members agree to honor a code of ethics, which is extremely important. The fact that a company, small or large, chooses to join a professional association signals its concern for quality and commitment to the enviroment.
You and the yard pest control company of your choice should develop the contract together. Your safety concerns should be noted and reflected in the choice of products to be used. These concerns may include allergies, sensitivities, the age of occupants (infants or elderly), resident pets, and treatment near wildlife and fish. Wise consumers get look at more than just price - because price typically determines quality.
Ask the company to use the environmentally-friendly method available that will do the job. Evaluate the results. If you believe something has gone wrong with the pesticide application, contact the company and/or your state pesticide regulatory agency. Be a responsible, wise consumer and keep asking questions until your pests are under control.