Pest control decision guides

Step 1: identify. The EPA makes identification a formal IPM step because "many organisms are innocuous, and some are even beneficial." A photo or specimen and a call to your state extension service or the National Pesticide Information Center costs nothing.

Step 2: set a threshold. The EPA defines this as "a point at which pest populations or environmental conditions indicate that pest control action must be taken." Deciding this in advance stops you from paying for treatment on a single sighting.

Step 3: fix conditions. Moisture, food, harborage and entry points. For termites, the EPA's prevention list is grading and drainage, prompt leak repair, clear gutters, and no wood-to-ground contact.

Step 4: choose control. The EPA's sequence: "Effective, less risky pest controls are chosen first, including highly targeted chemicals... or mechanical control, such as trapping," with broadcast spraying last. When you hire, ask to see the license, ask for the product label with rates and precautions, and check for complaints with your state pesticide regulatory agency or consumer office.

How to choose

Vet the company the way EPA suggests

See the license, confirm insurance and bonding, ask neighbors, and check complaints with the state pesticide regulatory agency or local consumer office.

Refuse pressure and unsolicited offers

EPA's consumer guidance explicitly warns about pressure sales tactics and unsolicited service offers. A real pest problem will still be there tomorrow.

Get the guarantee in writing

What triggers a free re-treatment, and for how long. Ask what would void it.

Read the contract term before signing a plan

Check the minimum term, cancellation terms, and the price after any introductory period.

Ask what a company will do besides spray

Inspection, identification, exclusion and conditions advice separate an IPM provider from a spray subscription.