Hiring A Pest Control Operator

HIRING A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR Pest problems arise from time to time that may require you to seek help controlling the pest from a professional. Pest is a term for undesirable plants (weeds), insects and plant diseases. It can be daunting to choose a pest control company. Don't rush into a decision. Consider talking with several companies before deciding on one. Even if your pest problem is urgent, take time to look for a reputable and knowledgeable company that meets your standards. As I travel around Eddy County, I have notice a number of persons applying pesticides, which may or may not be legal. Anyone applying any pesticide, including over the counter products, for a fee or on property that they are not the owner or lease must under, State and Federal law have a commercial pesticide applicator license for the categories they are applying. The law requires the business name and NMDA pesticide license number to be visibly displayed on the truck they are using. A landscaping company without a pesticide license cannot apply over the counter products, even as a basic maintenance package unless they are subcontracting to a commercial licensed applicator. Some questions to ask when hiring a Pest Control Operator. Do technicians have current licenses? Is the license the correct classification for the job? If they have an ornamental and Turf category they cannot do termite control. You can verify licensing by calling New Mexico State Department of Agriculture at 575-646-2733. How does the company keep their staff informed of changes in regulations, products, techniques and safety? Do they use Integrated Pest Management techniques? How many years has the company been in business? Do newly hired applicators train with more experienced employees? How much experience does the company have with treating pest problems like yours? Can the company offer an estimate for services in writing? Many offer free estimates. Get estimates from more than one company and compare their rates and services. Does the company require you to sign up for a long-term contract? If so, what are the long-term costs? Is the company able to provide a guarantee for their work? What are the terms? Do the employees listen to your concerns and address them with care and respect? Can the employees identify the pest, explain the extent of the infestation, and provide details about the pest and its behavior? Are they willing to discuss product selection and other details of the treatment? This is very important if you have pets or children. Are they willing to discuss low-toxicity options and reducing environmental risks? Do they have insurance to cover you, your property, and their employees? Will they give a letter of certification of coverage from their insurance provider? Are they responsible about wearing protective equipment when necessary? What measures will they take to prevent unnecessary exposures and accidents? As you contact and interview the companies, don't be afraid to ask questions. Educate yourself about the pest and your options for treatment. Once you have selected a pest control company, take note and keep for your files the following items: • The contact information for the company • The names of employees who are performing the work • The time and date of the inspections/treatments weather conditions • The names of the products they will use and their EPA Registration Numbers • The formulation of each product and where that product will be used. For example, is the product a gel, a spray, or a dust? • Any preparations you need make before the treatment, such as putting away clutter, removing items from kitchen cabinets, or keeping pets and children away from the area • Precautionary information or potential health effects in case of exposure to pesticide products. • Successful pest control will require communication and cooperation between you and the company. Ask questions and make sure you understand the treatment and your responsibilities in making the treatment a success. Contact the company or New Mexico Department of Agriculture to report any problems. Do not use unlicensed applicators, there have been illegal (not used by the label requirements) application of restricted and over the counter products which have resulted in irreparable landscape damage and human loss of life from unqualified and irresponsible applicators. Subscribe to Eddy County Ag news at: http://nmsueddyag.blogspot.com/ Eddy County Extension Service, New Mexico State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educator. All programs are available to everyone regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, handicap, or national origin. New Mexico State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Eddy County Government Cooperating.