Most people wait until they see a roach or a mouse before they bother looking up pest control. That's a mistake. You end up hiring whoever answers the phone fastest, and that's rarely the right call.
Licensing & Insurance Questions
Ask for their license number upfront. Every state has a database you can check in two minutes. If they hem and haw, hang up. Also ask for a certificate of insurance. You want to see general liability and workers' comp. If a worker gets hurt on your property and the company has no coverage, that bill lands on you. Don't take their word for it. Ask for the document.
Experience & References Questions
Don't ask how long they've been in business. Ask how long they've been dealing with your specific problem. A roach guy and a termite guy are not the same animal. Ask for three references from the last six months with the same pest you have. Call them. Quick phone call saves you a lot of grief. If the company can't produce names, they're either new or hiding something.
Pricing & Timeline Questions
Get a written estimate before they do anything. Not a quote over the phone. A real visit where they walk your property. Ask what the price covers and what costs extra. Some companies charge per visit, some charge per treatment. Find out how many visits are included. Also ask how long before you see results. Real pros give you a range, not a promise. If they say they'll solve it in one visit, they're probably lying.
Contract Questions
Read the contract before you sign. Look for cancellation fees, auto-renewal clauses, and what happens if the problem comes back after the warranty ends. Some contracts lock you in for a year with no way out. Ask if you can cancel at any time with a written notice. If they say no, walk. Also ask what happens if the treatment damages your stuff. Get their policy in writing, not just a shrug.
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