The sight of a single cockroach scuttling across the kitchen floor or a lone termite burrowing beneath yard debris may not seem like an immediate cause for concern. But unbeknownst to many Baltimore homeowners, your property is already deeply infested by the time you can spot what appears to be a stray or solitary pest.
According to the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), pests account for up to 40% of global crop production losses annually. These unwelcome critters cost the global economy approximately USD 300 billion in crop losses and property damage. Besides, some pests – such as ticks and mosquitoes – are vectors that carry potentially deadly diseases.
Fortunately, pests are remarkably easy to control.
Regularly inspecting your property is the most effective way to prevent an infestation. But even if these menacing critters have already overrun your home, it’s exciting to know that you can enlist professional pest extermination services to eliminate them.
Here’s a guide on how to find and pick the right pest exterminator in Baltimore.
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Should I Hire A Local Or Out-of-State Pest Control Company?
This is a critical question to settle before embarking on your search for the right Baltimore pest removal company. While national exterminators have a broader appeal and reputation, working with a regional company provides multiple benefits.
Local pest control companies possess a deeper knowledge of the local environment than their out-of-state counterparts. They understand the types of pests that commonly plague Baltimore homes and how to effectively eliminate them.
Besides, professional Baltimore exterminators understand the lay of the land. As they’ve probably rendered their services in your neighborhood, they know the shortest routes to your property.
Hiring a Baltimore pest exterminator is more convenient than engaging someone out of state. The fact that local pest control companies operate within the Baltimore metropolitan area allows them to respond swiftly to your pest inspections or removal requests.
Moreover, local pest exterminators charge relatively affordable fees, considering the shorter distance they travel to your location.
Lastly, hiring a Baltimore pest exterminator is an ingenious way to give back to the local community.
Tips for Finding a Pest Exterminator in Baltimore
There are two primary methods to locate a pest control company in Baltimore.
First, you could go the traditional way of seeking recommendations from your inner circle. If a close family or friend has enlisted pest control services before, inquire about their overall experience working with the exterminator to determine if you should contact the company.
Alternatively, you could take advantage of the internet.
Open your browser and search for a relevant keyword phrase, such as “best pest exterminator in Baltimore” or “best pest exterminator near me.” Now, head to the service pages of the first few companies that pop up higher on your search engine results for deeper insights into their offerings.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Baltimore Pest Exterminator
1. Professionalism and Reputation
One of the costliest mistakes you can make when searching for a pest exterminator is to settle with the first company that pops up on search engines.
Instead, sample reviews and testimonials to uncover what most of the exterminator’s clients had to say about their services.
2. Training and Certification
To become a pest exterminator in Baltimore, an individual must be at least eighteen (18) years old and possess a minimum of one year’s practical experience in pesticide application as a registered employee.
Proof of certification is particularly important if your preferred pest exterminator has hinted at using restricted-use pesticides (RUPs).
3. License and Insurance
Pest control training programs typically culminate in license issuance. However, validate that the company is licensed to control pests in the Baltimore metro area.
Also, insist on someone with relevant insurance coverage, such as general liability and worker’s compensation. This entitles you to any property damages or personal injuries sustained during extermination.
4. Practical Knowledge and Experience
It may be challenging to gauge a pest exterminator’s practical knowledge until you contract them to do the project. However, preliminary interactions with the company might offer some clues regarding their skills and experience.
For instance, the exterminator should be up to speed on the most prevalent pests in Baltimore. They should also understand what pest control chemicals are allowed, restricted, or outright banned.
5. Specialization and Customization
When it comes to pest control, there’s no such thing as a jack of all trades. Seek out exterminators who specialize in the types of pests that have infested your property.
Whether you’re dealing with a house or yard pest, the company should tailor their services to meet your needs.
6. Tools and Equipment
Pests, no matter their size or number, are inherently dangerous. So, the best Baltimore pest exterminator should possess the requisite tools for the job.
Again, this will depend on the critters in question.
Pay particular attention to any regulated chemicals. In Maryland, all chlorpyrifos-containing pesticides were banned as of January 1, 2022. Pesticides containing heptachlor are also banned across the United States, while those formulated with carbofuran and carbaryl are highly restricted.
7. Responsiveness and Organization
When grappling with pest infestation, the last thing you want is a pest exterminator who takes forever to reply to your simple queries. Therefore, contact the company’s support and test their responsiveness before engaging them.
The exterminator must also demonstrate impeccable organizational skills. Shun a supposed pest remover who shows up on your property unexpectedly or insists on embarking on the task without laying down proper methodology.
8. Approach and Adaptability
Pest control is an intricate process that requires in-depth preparation and post-treatment follow-ups. Your preferred Baltimore pest exterminator should spell out proper safety procedures before and after the treatment.
Depending on the nature and scope of the project, you may need to cover your furniture, vacuum the house, relocate your household, and keep off the house for a while.
9. Value for Money
When all is said and done, you’ll only hire a pest control company if your budget allows it. So, it doesn’t hurt to compare quotes.
However, beware of exterminators that purportedly charge rock-bottom fees, lest you pay twice for the same work.
Summary
There are over 33,000 pest control companies spread across US cities like Baltimore, according to IBISWorld. But just as you would approach a pest inspection of your property, intense scrutiny is paramount while searching for the best pest exterminator.
A good practice is prioritizing pest control companies in the Baltimore metropolitan area. Then, ensure the exterminator is fully licensed, duly insured, and enjoys a proven track record of impeccable service delivery.