FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Yes and no. However, there are to many variables to discuss in this type of forum. For example the worst type of rodent problem where rodents are living in an attic or crawl space and are forcing their way into the living space demands a very aggressive and immediate treatment plan. This will include snap traps, bait boxes and a clean out of the attic or crawl space and more importantly sealing the openings that allow the rodents into the structure. A clean out necessitate the removal and subsequent replacement of all insulation due to the excessive amount of rodent feces and urine that is present. This is a multi day job and the price typically depends on the size of the residence (amount of insulation) and the difficulty of working in the attic or crawl space. However, that is the extreme. For a typical residence I will spray the exterior of a house and do limited interior work for $50.00-75.00 (out buildings). Exterior bait boxes (rodent control) will add another $5.00-$7.50 (depending on the number of boxes). Thus we are looking at $55.00-80.00 If I need to check a crawl space or attic I will generally add $25.00 depending on the ease of getting into and inspecting the attic or crawl. I have declined jobs due to some crawls or attic being too hazardous to inspect or work in. Wasp and or hornet nest removal will typically run $150.00-$200.00 and I can do the jobs in 1-2 days. Commercial jobs have their own limitations and expertise that are to numerous to discuss here.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Initially I speak to the customer and find out what the problem is and where is the problem located. I then conduct an inspection inside and outside of the home or business and find out the extent of the problem and conditions that may be causing or contributing to the problem. From there I can sit down with the client and explain the problem and discuss options. What people need to understand is that pest problems don't occur overnight neither will the solution. Pest control and their preventive measures will take time to have and show an effect. This is where preventative measures come into play. Insects and rodents will cross your path in their search for food, water or a place to call home. If you as the client can either eliminate or reduce those factors you will have a huge impact on the size of of the pest problem. Can you eliminate the problem completely, probably not since there may be conditions that you may have no control over. But preventive measures will help.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
In Washington you have to be state certified (licensed) through the Dept of Agriculture. Meaning you have to pass a series of state issued test. Then their is continuing education to maintain your license and proficiency. Clients fail to realize that rodents, ants, roaches bedbugs (pests) are intelligent life forms. Eliminating them is impossible nor is it our goal. What we strive for is keeping the pest out of the house and keeping them where they naturally and physically belong. Due to the chemicals we can use and the potential for injury or harm we operate in a regulated industry. Which is good but because of this pricing for service will sometimes reflect this. Clients need to understand that pesticides are chemicals. Properly used this type of "tool" is the most effective in our arsenal. Consequently, its up to me as a certified pest control operator to educate the client as to the course of treatment.