What to Look for When Hiring A Pest Management Professional (PMP)

It might be your first time or maybe not, but there are important facts you should before you hire any pest management firm and fork over your hard earned cash.   Where ever you live pests will invade your home or business. In many cases these pests are just a nuisance that people tolerate. However, that degree of tolerance depends on your feelings about creepy crawling things in your living or work space. Some pest infestations cannot and will not be tolerated because the can inflict pain, damage buildings, contaminate food, spread diseases, destroy clothing and create unsanitary conditions at home, restaurants and in hospitals.

So, now you have a pest infestation and you want to treat it your self! When used properly, many pesticides that control pests in and around the structures can be used effectively by the homeowner. But, don’t be fooled, in thinking that because you purchased a pesticide from your local store that it is safer to use! They can have the same toxic effects to you and the environment as what professionals use. Pesticides are chemicals used to control or mitigate pest populations. Pesticides are made to selectively affect the development, reproduction of pest, and can also affect non-target species and be toxic to other animals. Keeping that in mind, if you plan to treat your pest problem yourself, you should take in considerations the following conditions before applying pesticides.

1 First: Read the label, there is very important instructions and precautions that you need to do before you start spraying, and consider the following.
2. Is there anyone with respiratory conditions?
3. Are there pets?
4. Are there children?
5. Are there elderly?
6. Is there anybody who is chronically ill?
7. Pregnancy
8. Allergens
9. The elderly
10. Never apply more than the label recommends.

And that’s just a few considerations you need to think about before you spray any pesticide.
If you are unsure of your pest problem, or have questions concerning the use of pesticides, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Currently licensed and certified Pest Management Professionals (PMPs) have the appropriate tools, training and is qualified to handle your pest problem. Once you have decided to hire a Pest Management Professional, how can you find a qualified company?
Referrals: Ask friends, neighbors or business associates for names of firms with whom they have had positive experiences.
Interview at least three Firms: Seek estimates from several companies and make a selection based on the value of their service, not price.

Knowledgeable Service Professionals:

Seek knowledgeable and competent professionals who take the time to inspect and explain your pest problems, options, and the best way to achieve control of your pests. Be wary of special deals and high-pressure sales tactics. The lowest price may not be the best value if the PMP is cutting corners on your safety.
Choose a company that meets your pest control needs. Seek out companies which meet all your professional pest control needs. Competent PMPs will outline a program that identifies pests to be controlled, the extent of the infestation, the pesticides intended for use, or Organic pest control applications, and the steps you can take to minimize future infestation.
The initial inspection may even indicate that pesticides are not necessary.
Avoid any treatments which include the use of "special formulations" chemicals or are marketed as a special discount if you have the work done immediately.
Ask the company to discuss Integrated Pest Management (IPM) options. IPM techniques may involve the use of monitoring devices, Inspections, chemical products, insect growth regulators (IGR’s), sanitation, cultural practices, and other physical steps that one should take to avoid or reduce problems. The applicator should be able to help you understand your pest problem and what to do about it, and how to reduce future infestations.

Make sure they are registered with the State Agency:

The NJ Department of Environmental Protection licenses individuals who apply pesticides and require a business registration with the department to operate. You should check with the DEC 609-984-6507 or www.pcpnj.org , to see if any complaints have been filed or any enforcement actions taken against a company or applicator.
Check to see if the company is affiliated with professional organizations: Membership in a professional organization reflects a commitment to integrity and responsibility. Professional associations usually offer members opportunities for training on the latest developments in technology, safety, research, and regulations. They also require members to follow best management practices. Look for companies that indicate they are members of any of the professional association like: The National Pest Management Association and the New Jersey Pest Management Association, You can cal the association and ask if they are in good standing with the requirements of the association. You can also check on the firm's reliability with the Better Business Bureau and or local Chamber of Commerce.
Have the PMP describe why and where the applications will take place. In addition, ask what products will be used for each application. If you do not understand the information they are presenting, ask them to further explain the procedure. Do not agree to anything until you are satisfied with what is to be done.

Ask to see a license
All commercial applicators, people who apply pesticides for hire, must be licensed by the DEC. Applicators are required to carry their current license with them while using any pesticide. You should ask to see the license of anyone who intends to apply pesticides on your property. If an applicator is unable or unwilling to show you their current license, you should not hire them. If you have any doubts as to whether an individual is licensed, contact the DEC at 609-984-6507.
It is important to use only licensed applicators. An individual who holds a commercial applicator's license or certificate has demonstrated a basic knowledge and an understanding of the principles of pesticide use, pest control methods, and State and Federals regulations. In addition, licensed applicators must carry insurance for financial liability. This insurance covers bodily injury, property damage, chemical drift, and pollution damage. Unlicensed applicators are unlikely to have this financial protection for the consumer and the general public.

Always follow your instincts on hiring anybody to work in your home or business. Safety is important for your family and staff at you place of business. Service Technicians should wear uniforms, and carry ID cards. Before you let someone into your home the first time ask for their ID, and always follow other consumer safety suggestions.

Joe D'Ambrozio C.C.P.A.

J. D'Ambrozio Pest Management Services LLC.