Wet winters and warm summers in Portland often mean dealing with pests throughout the year. Both residential and commercial property owners have the hardest time tackling infestations. Most species, including ants, rodents, bed bugs, and roaches, can multiply quickly, and even before you realize it, the infestation would have reached the next level. While some DIY steps can help prevent pests, active infestations need the expertise of a pest control company. Most professional services don’t follow the one-size-fits-all approach and will customize everything for your needs. Find out more about how pest control plans work in Portland.
Beyond the one-size-fits-all pricing
Some of the more common pests you will find in Portland include termites, wasps, bed bugs, rodents, and ants. Some neighborhoods have an urban landscape, while others are close to wooded areas. Pest problems also change with a change in location. Also, each species must be handled in a specific manner. Exterminators are usually interested in knowing the age of the building, prior pest history, and structure details – All of which help them come up with a tailored plan.
Key Elements of a Customized Pest Control Plan
Once you call a pest control service, they will send a technician or worker for a detailed inspection. The idea is to identify the pest you are dealing with, as well as the exact problem areas and entry points. Usually, the customer care team will ask questions to know the signs and symptoms you have noticed, and the inspection team will come equipped accordingly. You will get an estimate, which will include everything concerning the current infestation. Some companies even offer preventive pest control plans as an add-on.
Choosing a customized pest control plan – What to ask?
Now that you have an estimate or a tentative contract, this is the time to ask questions. Here are some queries to include on your list:
- How have you come up with the treatment plan? Have you encountered such infestations before?
- What methods and products will you use?
- Are the products safe for my pets and the environment?
- Will you schedule follow-up visits? If yes, how often?
- Do you offer a warranty for remediation?
A guarantee on pest control work is an indicator that the company has faith in its work and will follow the right approach. It also means you don’t have to spend money on the same problem again in the near future. As for the approach, more exterminators are now focused on remedies and relief rather than eliminating pests. In other words, the goal is not to use chemicals, especially toxic pesticides, rodenticides, and insecticides, unless necessary.
Preventive pest control is a must
Even if you agree to the price to fix the current infestation, investing in a preventive pest control plan is a good idea. The technicians will check your home for early signs of pest activity and take additional steps. For instance, if your home is prone to rodents, they may install traps and bait stations. When a client is located close to wooded areas, ant baiting systems can help. Moisture control solutions could be recommended for basements and other areas prone to leaks and water damage.
Check the critical details
Before you select an exterminator, always start with simple things like a valid license and insurance. Workers need to be trained and insured, and liability insurance is a must to cover damages (if any) to your home. You should also discuss whether and how you need to prepare for the treatment and other steps. Team up with a pest control company in Portland that cares beyond handling infestations – You should sleep worry-free, knowing all steps have been followed to protect your home from pests!
