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Don't be pestered with pests this summer
Released: Sunday June 24, 2012 (Calgary, AB) - BBB
Perma-link:
http://www.gaycalgary.com/n574
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As temperatures start to warm up, bugs and other pests will attempt to seek shelter in homes and office buildings. BBB reports an increase in inquiries for pest control services during the months of May, June and July. So when the pest control job gets too big for a flyswatter, mousetrap or do-it-yourself spray, it could be time to call in a professional.
In the past year, BBB has received more than 80 complaints against pest control services with many of the complaints alleging treatments were not effective and pests were not fully exterminated. Other complaints allege issues over the final cost of the services or the payment process.
To help prevent pests from entering your home, make sure there are not any outside openings such as torn screens, cracks under the door or foundation issues. Homeowners should also should check and reapply any worn out weather stripping around outside doors and windows.
If considering a professional service to help with your pest problems, BBB recommends the following:
· Start with trust. Check any pest control company's BBB Business Review by going to http://www.calgary.bbb.org before signing a contract. Look at
the company's rating, how it has responded to past customer complaints and any
advertising issues it may have had.
· Compare price quotes. Solicit bids from at least three
different pest control companies before making a decision. BBB provides a free
Request a Quote service to gather estimates from local BBB Accredited
Businesses. Be sure to provide the details of the services you need, and keep
in mind the lowest price may not always be the highest quality of service.
· Ask about safety and risks. Because pesticides and pest
control strategies can be dangerous to touch or directly inhale, be sure to ask
the company about the safety of the chemicals it uses. Let the company know if
you have pets, children or sensitive plants as that may impact the products
they select for your home.
· Read the fine print. Carefully go over any contract
before you sign. Pay close attention to any warranties or termination fees if
the contract is extended for monitoring or future services. Make sure any
additional discounts or guarantees promised are included in the contract.
· Check for licensing and insurance. Make sure company
meets city licensing requirements by verifying with the City of Calgary or your
government agency, if you are in a small town. Also, be sure to ask for proof
of the company's workers' compensation insurance and coverage for any potential
property damage or personal liability.
For more consumer news you can trust and to check out a business near
you, visit http://www.calgary.bbb.org
