For anyone, buying a new home is exciting and a bit scary, but if you are buying your first home can really be an overwhelming event. With home ownership comes with a whole host of new responsibilities you have never had and many tough decisions to make. For anyone, buying a new home is exciting and a bit scary, but if you are buying your first home can really be an overwhelming event. With home ownership comes with a whole host of new responsibilities you have never had and many tough decisions to make. Picking a pest control company is one of the first of these big decisions that you will make.

Most mortgage lenders and homeowners’ insurance companies require the buyer to have a termite protection service agreement in place when they close on the home. Some buyers will just have their real estate agent pick a company and set up a long-term treatment contract without even knowing the company’s name. This is not the best policy.

Pest control is about more than just termites. You may need spider, ant, roach or rodent control as well. You might not even know what you need till after you’ve moved in and gotten settled. In addition, your needs could change over time. It’s best to make your own choice of pest management.

While your agent could have great contacts, the pest control company the pick might not be right for you. You agent could also be new to the area or he might have even picked a company from the phone book. This decision could have serious repercussions so don’t trust it to anyone else. Here are a few tips to help you pick the best pest control company.

Referrals
Most companies will give you the names of a few of their happiest customers. Checking the references provided isn’t a bad idea. However, that “customer” could always be a friend or family member of the owner. It’s better to seek out the opinions of a few unbiased customers.
Ask around your new neighborhood to find out which pest companies your neighbors use. Ask them what their experience has been like. Are they satisfied? Do they feel the treatments are effective? Have they had any repeat problems? What are the most common pests in the area?

Interviews
Many pest control companies offer free inspections. Utilize this service as a type of interview. Set up a few of these free inspections with different companies so that you can compare and contrast the staff and the results.

Some companies will send a salesperson who will try to get you on the hook for lots of expensive add-ons. Of course, you will want to avoid these. Look for a technician who is knowledgeable, professional and respectful.

Take the time to interview the technician. Ask about the methods and products they use and what the company’s philosophy of pest management is. Find out what certifications they hold. Ask what their plan for your home is and get a copy if you can.

Research
The internet has made finding information so much easier. There are plenty of sites that will give you an honest assessment of a company’s work ethic and reputation. The Better Business Bureau is always a good place to start. Use only reputable and unbiased sites run by well-known organizations. There are some “whistle blower” sites that cannot be trusted.

With a little diligence, you can find a great pest management company. Your new home will be clean, comfortable and free of spiders, mice and bed bugs.