Pest Control: The Ins and Outs, By Stu Silverman

Controlling pest infestation isn't something homeowners look forward to spending their money on. After all, exterminating household pests doesn't have the same glamour as say, finishing the basement, building an addition or a deck, or remodeling the bathroom. Nor will it increase your property value. But controlling pest infestation is necessary to keep your home in liveable condition, to protect against further property damage and illness, and to help maintain your home's current value.

If your house or property is infested by pests, you can try to exterminate them on your own or you can call in a specialist. So what should you do?

Do it yourself or hire a professional?

In simpler cases, like the presence of a mouse or two, you can try to deal with the problem on your own. This can save you a significant amount of money. But remember that quick, effective action is necessary, as just one female mouse can give birth to a dozen babies - about 7 or 8 times per year! And considering that each newborn female becomes fertile in about 8 weeks, your mouse infestation problem can quickly get out of hand.

With even more complex problems like termite and cockroach infestation, and removal of birds and potentially dangerous wildlife, such as skunks and raccoons, it is essential to call a professional pest control service.

A reputable pest control company will do an initial indoor and outdoor inspection to help identify and treat any immediate infestation problems.

Knowledge, training and experience

Most homeowners simply do not have the knowledge and training to identify and treat pest infestation problems. Exterminators and wildlife removal specialists are trained to identify various insect and animal species and to develop a course of treatment that takes into account their biology and behavior patterns.

Pest control professionals also have experience with various types of treatments and specialized equipment, and they know how to safely handle potentially hazardous materials to protect humans and pets from harm. This is especially important if you have specific health concerns, medical conditions or a sensitivity to certain chemicals.

What can you expect from a professional pest control service?

A reputable pest control company will do an initial indoor and outdoor inspection to help identify and treat any immediate infestation problems - this includes inspection of basements, crawl spaces, attics, cracks and crevices, and other hidden areas where critters like to hide. They will then develop a customized treatment plan specific to your needs, and schedule regular visits, if necessary, to help eliminate the problem for good.

Most reputable pest control services offer some sort of guarantee. If their treatment wasn't fully effective they will usually fix the problem free of charge, although some pest control companies will refund your money if you are not fully satisfied. In any case, make sure you are protected with a satisfaction guarantee.

Get several quotes from reputable companies

Finally, just like hiring any other contractor, before you hire an exterminator or wildlife removal service, ensure that the company is reputable, licensed and properly insured. You may also inquire whether the company is a member of a recognized pest control association. And although you may be eager to have your pest control problem taken care of quickly, it is advisable to get several quotes before settling on a particular company.

For more excellent advice on selecting a pest control service, click this link: http://www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/pcpestcntrl.htm