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Shop around
Ask friends, neighbors or business associates for names of firms who have done a good job. Get bids from several companies and select by value, not price. Be wary of special deals-cutting corners on your safety is no bargain.
Find comprehensive program
Avoid firms that "spray and split." Look for companies that offer a complete service. For instance, a thorough lawn care program will include soil analysis, fertilizing, seeding and aeration along with advice for homeowner care for the lawn's watering and mowing.
Competent pest management professionals will outline a program that identifies pests to be controlled, the extent of infestation, pesticides intended for use and steps you can take to minimize future infestations.
Applicators should be able to identify pests and should know about pest behavior and control methods. Training in Integrated Pest Management Practices (IPM) practices is also essential.
Professional applicators should provide proactive suggestions that identify housekeeping and structural deficiencies that contribute to pest problems. The business should offer an IPM program that includes:
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- regular inspection of potential problem sites
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- classification of outdoor areas
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- discussion and establishment of pest thresholds
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- recommendations for control
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- evaluation of control measures
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- emphasis on maintenance and sanitation
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- pesticide applications only when necessary, i.e. when the established pest threshold is exceeded.
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- provide copies of pesticide labels and toxicity information for each pesticide that may be used
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- use of low risk pesticides when other means of control are not feasible
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- scheduling of applications when homes are not occupied
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Ask to see a license
All pest control and lawn care companies are required to be licensed by the BPC. Also, a certified and licensed applicator must be on site whenever pesticides are applied for hire or in public places. Make sure a company representative shows you a current license, or to find a licensed applicator in your area, contact the BPC at 207-287-2731 or email pesticides@maine.gov.
Check references
A company that wants your business may offer several references, but don't depend entirely on the salesman's pitch. Check the company's track record with Maine's Better Business Bureau in Portland (207-878-2715).
Check insurance
Maine law requires every professional application firm to carry general liability insurance.
Check for professional associations
Professional associations usually train members on the latest developments in technology, safety, research and regulations. They also require members to follow codes of ethics. So, if a pest management or lawn care company belongs to a professional association-be it local, state or national-it's likely the firm shows a commitment to integrity.
Get a written contract
Be sure of the following before you sign on the dotted line:
- Make sure the contract says the pest management professional or lawn care company promises to inspect your home or lawn before applying pesticides. Avoid companies which apply pesticides on a fixed schedule without regard for the extent of your pest problem, if any.
- Review the labels of pesticides and discuss techniques the applicator intends to use. Ask if less-toxic alternatives are available. Also inquire about special instructions you should follow to reduce your exposure.
- Note safety concerns in the contract. It should recognize family members with allergies, infants or the elderly and pets. Choice of pesticides needs to reflect these concerns. You may want to include a statement that allows you to reject unwanted chemicals.
- Agree to a contract that is effective for a fixed period of time. This commits the company to establish a custom-tailored plan for pest control and not just carry out one or several treatments.
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