| Obtain
several quotes and check out each of the companies.
First
enquire as to how long the business has been established.
Do they have a good reputation in the market-place. Are they
a member of a recognised Pest Control Association?
Ask
questions about
termites and the different treatment options the company employs,
the chemicals used, their toxicity and safety aspects. Compare
notes on the methods of each company. Which company seems
the more professional?
Make
sure the company carries professional indemnity and public
liability insurance for
their termite control services and inspection reports.
Be
present during the termite inspection.
Study
the general presentation of the inspector, such as, was the
inspector in company uniform, with proper identification?
Did he/she arrive in a tidy motor vehicle and use quality
equipment, including a moisture meter? Was a thorough inspection
carried out? Were you presented with informative documentation
regarding the inspection findings and treatment proposals?
Did he/she adequately explain the alternatives so you are
confident he/she knew his/her subject matter? Were there any
other aspects that may indicate professionalism or otherwise?
Make notes and comparisons.
Enquire
as to the qualifications and experience of the termite inspector.
Does
he/she have a current pest controller license (and not just
a trainee permit). You should cite his/her State Government
issued pest controller license, noting name, number and expiry
date.
Enquire
as to whether the company uses employees or sub-contractors.
Be
wary of companies with sub-contractors as problems often occur
in the market place where sub-contractors are obliged to pay
for the supply of chemical and other costs but do not assume
responsibility if the service proves to be inadequate at a
later date.
Ask
about any applicable back-up service period.
For
example, a company may provide you with a twelve month "FREE
service period" for a chemical soil barrier treatment where
the termite controller is confident a complete barrier is
in place around the entire foot-print or perimeter of the
building. This annual service period may be extended annually
thereafter (at the customers option) provided necessary regular
inspections and other essential control measures are carried
out as recommended.
Be
wary of companies that offer a 10 or 20 year warranty
as
this commits you for that period, so you have to obtain (pay
for) regular inspections and other work whether or not you
want it. Such a long term warranty offer is usually unrealistic
and a sign of short-term intentions. |
