How to Choose a Pest Control Company: 8 Steps to Avoid Scams and Bad Service

Choosing the wrong pest control company can mean wasted money on ineffective treatments, unnecessary chemicals in your home, or getting locked into an overpriced contract. Here's how to find a quality provider.

Step 1: Verify Licensing

Every state requires pest control companies to hold a valid pesticide applicator license. Check with your state's Department of Agriculture or pesticide regulatory agency to verify the company's license is active and in good standing. Unlicensed pest control is illegal in every state and potentially dangerous - there's no oversight of what chemicals they're using or how they're applying them.

Step 2: Verify Insurance

Require proof of general liability insurance and, ideally, workers' compensation coverage. Pest control involves chemicals in your home - if something goes wrong (damage to your property, a pet gets sick, a technician is injured), insurance protects you. A reputable company will readily provide proof of insurance.

Step 3: Get a Free Inspection First

Any reputable pest control company will offer a free initial inspection before quoting a price. During this inspection, they should identify the specific pest species, locate entry points and nesting areas, assess the severity of the infestation, and explain treatment options with pros and cons. Be wary of companies that quote prices over the phone without an inspection - effective pest control requires understanding your specific situation.

Step 4: Understand the Treatment Plan

Ask what specific products and methods will be used. A good company explains their approach in terms you can understand. Ask about Integrated Pest Management (IPM) - this approach combines prevention, monitoring, and targeted treatment to minimize chemical use while maximizing effectiveness. Companies that just spray everything with broad-spectrum pesticides are using outdated methods.

Step 5: Compare at Least 3 Quotes

Get written quotes from at least 3 companies for the same scope of work. Compare not just price but what's included: number of treatments, which pests are covered, guarantee terms, and whether re-treatments are free. The cheapest quote may not include the same level of service or guarantee as a slightly more expensive one.

Step 6: Read the Contract Carefully

Before signing, understand the contract length (month-to-month vs. annual), cancellation terms and early termination fees, what's included in each visit, guarantee terms (what happens if pests return between visits), and any automatic renewal clauses. Many complaints about pest control companies stem from customers who didn't read contract terms.

Step 7: Check Reviews and References

Look at Google Reviews, BBB rating, and Angi/HomeAdvisor. Focus on review patterns: how the company responds to complaints matters as much as the rating itself. Ask for references from current customers in your area. A company confident in their work will provide them readily.

Step 8: Avoid Red Flags

Be cautious of companies that use high-pressure sales tactics or artificial urgency, promise to eliminate all pests forever (impossible), refuse to provide written quotes or contract details, require full payment upfront before any service, can't explain what products they're using, or show up unsolicited offering free inspections (often a sales tactic). Trust companies that educate you, explain their approach, and give you time to make a decision.