Finding cockroaches in the kitchen or termites in the walls is every homeowner's nightmare. But hiring the wrong pest control service can be equally damaging — both to your health and your wallet. Here's what you need to know before booking a pest control service.
Types of Pest Control Services
Before choosing a service, understand what type of treatment you need:
- General Pest Control — Covers cockroaches, ants, spiders, and common insects. Ideal for quarterly maintenance.
- Termite Treatment — Requires soil treatment or injection-based methods. Not a DIY job.
- Rodent Control — Involves bait stations, traps, and sealing entry points.
- Bed Bug Treatment — Requires heat treatment or chemical spraying of mattresses and furniture.
- Mosquito Control — Fogging, larviciding, and source reduction.
Check for Certifications and Licensing
In India, pest control operators are regulated by the Central Insecticides Board (CIB). A legitimate company should hold a valid pest control licence issued by the state agriculture department. Always ask for this before booking.
Ask About the Chemicals Used
Insist on knowing the brand and composition of chemicals. Reputable companies use WHO-approved, low-toxicity compounds. If a company can't disclose this, walk away. Ask specifically:
- Are chemicals safe for children under 5?
- How long should pets be kept away after treatment?
- What's the re-entry time after spraying?
Warranty and Follow-Up
A reliable pest control service always offers a post-treatment warranty — typically 3 to 6 months for general pest control, and 1 year for termite treatment. If pests return within the warranty period, they should retreat at no extra charge.
Red Flags to Watch For
- No written quote or invoice
- Pressure to book immediately with huge discounts
- No uniform or identification
- Unwilling to share chemical names
- No office address or verifiable phone number
Questions to Ask Before Booking
Ask the service provider: How many years of experience? Do they have before-and-after photos? Can they provide references from previous clients? What's included in the package?