Most people like wildlife. They like it outside where it belongs and away from their homes and families. It’s not uncommon for people to go a little overboard when they think they see a bug in the house. The fear is real, but so are the solutions.
Fleas or Bed Bugs
Regardless of which it is, either one presents its own danger to your family. Fleas are typically associated with hairy or furry animals such as dogs or cats. While bedbugs are usually brought into the home on a person, either one needs a warm-blooded host to provide a meal, but no one says it was supposed to be you.
Mice and Rats
Here it is not so much the difference in appearance but in damage and aggression. An adult rat is considerably larger than the average house mouse by about 4-6 inches. They are also more likely to attack family pets such as smaller dogs and cats. In both cases, the damage they do to the structure or wiring of a home can cause a myriad of problems, including fires. Not to mention the fact that they spread disease and bacteria.
Spiders
In many areas of the country, spiders, such as the black widow or brown recluse, are becoming an ever-present danger. However, as many of their chosen hiding places tend to be places such as a woodpile, rolled up clothing, or shoes, we are more likely to be bitten by mistake. Consequently, the Tennessee Poison Center has taken to inform the community about how to stay safer.
Termites
No one spends hundreds of thousands of dollars on something they want termites to eat. They can do a real number on the integrity of the home and should be dealt with quickly and by a licensed professional. Nashville pest control services have great resources in which to combat that problem.
Mosquitos
These insects usually top the scale when it comes to blood-sucking annoyance. Also, mosquitos are known to carry dangerous diseases as well. One bite can lead to malaria, yellow fever, West Nile virus and a host of others.
It may be hard to imagine that all of these things can harm us inside our homes. It is imperative that we seek professional advice and service as to how to tackle these and other pest control issues. There are some things that you should look for when scouting for a pest control company.
1. Contact information is complete and up to date
-All phone numbers and contact forms on the website are operational and lead to customer service during normal business hours
2. Why are you at my door?
– If you did not call them, a technician should not be at our door trying to claim there is an infestation in the neighborhood. Point blank.
3. Are you licensed to do this?
-Any reputable company should be hiring and training licensed technicians. As a matter of fact, some pest are so tricky, the company has to have a specific license in order to perform exterminations.
4. Where is the paperwork?
-A company in good standing will offer you the correct paperwork without your having to ask, including a breakdown on the receipt, list of chemicals used, and any nuances pertinent to their contracts.
5. Why do I need this now?
-This is a common question in the winter when pests are less likely to be seen. However, this is the prime time when combating them can be effective.
Finding a reputable company is all about listening to what is being said and less about the flashing sticker price. Many companies will offer a free estimate giving you an opportunity to evaluate the terms and conditions of several companies. A trained staff in the office and a trained staff in the field are two of the best marks of a reputable company.
Staff and technicians should be able to explain the process as well as provide insight on the requested service. If a company is more interested in your credit card than your pest problem, then they are not the company for you. Furthermore, check out their rating with the Better Business Bureau. A good company has nothing to hide and will proudly share their rating.
