Choosing the Right Pest Control Company: A Quick Guide

Last Updated on 16 July 2025

There are 32,720 licensed pest control businesses in the United States as at 2025, according to Ibis World. That represents a 3.2% increase from the previous year, underscoring the growing need for pest treatment services.

The sheer number of pest extermination providers should come as great news for homeowners dealing with pest infestation. With dozens of options to pick from, you’re sure to find a company that offers personalized services.

However, not every pest control company delivers on its claims. Due diligence is paramount to ensure you’re getting good value for your money (and time).

In this guide, we explore the top factors to consider when looking for a pest removal service.

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Check Industry Duration

The duration a pest control company has been around often corresponds with the expected quality of services.

While new industry entrants may offer discounted rates in a bid to nail initial clients, established businesses with at least 10+ years’ experience tend to offer exceptional workmanship.

Triangle Pest Control in Charlotte is a reputable pest exterminator that has catered to Charlotte and its surroundings for over 20 years.

The company offers a wide range of pest control services, from routine inspections to actual pest removal. They’re also happy to share insightful pest prevention tips, ensuring a pest-free environment.

Read Online Reviews

Checking the period that a pest control company has been plying their trade isn’t enough. To ensure the exterminator is up to the task, sample online feedback from its previous clients.

Note the specific issues that most reviewers gave a thumbs-up and thumbs-down.

Is it the quality of workmanship, work methodology, turnaround time (TAT), or support responsiveness?

Carefully analyze each aspect to determine a pest exterminator’s suitability for your needs.

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Scout Locally

Choosing a pest control service that operates within your immediate community comes with several perks.

First, local pest exterminators understand the most menacing vermin in your locality. That’s because they’ve probably responded to multiple similar infestations before.

If you’re in Charlotte, North Carolina, you’re more likely to seek pest control services for ants, termites, roaches, and rodents. The city’s warm and humid climate provides the ideal breeding ground for these vermin.

Other benefits of hiring locally include;

  • In-depth understanding of local pest control regulations
  • Competitive quotes due to minimal transport mark-up
  • Swift response and turnaround time
  • Provision of personalized services
  • Supporting the local community

Assess the Range of Services Offered

While pest removal is the core of pest control, you want a company that offers a wide range of services. Those include pest inspection, identification, treatment, and follow-up services.

More importantly, select a pest control company that deals with your specific type of infestation.

It doesn’t matter if your property is overrun by cockroaches, rodents, or larger wildlife like raccoons. The exterminator should prescribe solutions that address your individual needs.

Gauge the Work Methodology

Since pest removal is a multi-step process, it’s best to understand what happens in each phase. A competent pest extermination company should clearly articulate their work methodology.

Although the pest control process may vary depending on the specific infestation, it typically begins with a company visiting your property and conducting robust inspections. The check-ups enable the exterminator to identify the type and scope of infestation.

Next, the company would issue you with a quote that’s commensurate with the projected work scope.

If you’re in agreement, you’ll need to prepare your home for the imminent treatment. This involves vacuuming the house, clearing debris, decluttering, covering furniture and appliances, etc.

The final steps are the actual pest removal and any follow-up treatments.

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Inquire About Licenses

Hiring a licensed pest control company offers quality assurance. Besides, it proves that the exterminator is legally compliant and understands relevant safety protocols.

Note that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has specific guidelines on banned and severely restricted pest control compounds. While some of this information is publicly available, only a licensed pest control company would acknowledge the legal and ecological ramifications of using unapproved products.

A license is particularly significant for commercial pest treatments that require applying restricted use pesticides (RUPs).

In Charlotte, the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) is responsible for issuing all pest control licenses. Ensure the document is duly valid and not expired.

Inquire About Insurance Too

Pest control is similar to many other home renovation projects in that there are always risks of physical harm and property damage. Therefore, it pays to hire a pest exterminator that possesses relevant licenses.

General liability insurance is a minimum requirement for Charlotte pest control companies. It protects you from liability if anyone sustains injuries or your property gets damaged during the pest removal procedure.

Other critical insurance coverage to look for in a pest control company include;

  • Worker’s compensation insurance – Covers medical expenses and associated costs for injuries sustained by the exterminator’s employees
  • Professional liability insurance – Cushions you against substandard workmanship

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Summary

Choosing the right pest control company is an involving decision that demands extreme caution.

First, prioritize local pest removal services. Local pest removalists are comparatively affordable and offer swift response time compared to their out-of-state counterparts.

After narrowing down on a few potentially reputable pest removal companies, check that the providers possess valid licenses and relevant insurance coverage. Don’t forget to read online reviews before eventually settling on the right pest control service.

And as a parting shot, insist on providers with verifiable experience dealing with your specific type of infestation.