General pest Control Services and Termite Control: An Interview with ABC Pest Management

Please describe a little bit about your company and the services you offer.

ABC Pest Management is a full service pest control company offering residential and commercial services. We offer everything from general pest control services to termite control. We can also assist you with rodent and bird control as well.

How did you get into this line of work?

An acquaintance of mine was involved with the marketing side of the pest control industry. Through trade journals and other reference materials, I found myself developing an infatuation with the thought of starting my own business. After all, I love working outdoors, I love nature, and I have a great respect for the environment. So, after a little more research, and after a few phone calls, I learned that the previous owner of ABC Pest was seeking other business opportunities. I ended up being at the right place at the right time, and I quickly found myself at the negotiation table with my accountant working out the details to purchase ABC Pest Control.

What is the first thing someone should do once they suspect a pest problem in their home?

If the homeowner suspects a pest problem, call a licensed professional. A competent technician should be able to identify the pest and what can be done to solve your pest problem. If you are a new homeowner, you may want to ask the listing agent if there were/are any seller disclosures for previously known issues. Especially with termites or carpenter ants. Most pest control companies will offer a free inspection if you suspect a problem, or if you would like to know what particular pests exist in your area.

Are all of your technicians licensed?

Yes, all of our technicians are licensed in several pesticide applicator categories. All are seasoned, experienced professionals.

Do you offer green alternatives to chemical pesticides? If no, do you think these new "green" pesticides are effective?

Yes, we have a few 'green' alternatives. Most can be very effective. Especially if other non-chemical control measures are implemented with your service. We also offer synthetic pyrethroid insecticides. These products are in most cases, the perfect solution to New Mexico's on-going pest problem. Combining the most advanced chemistry, these products will take the battle directly to your home's defensive zones.

Will the families need to leave home during your treatment?

In most, if not all cases, the label of the product that is being used will dictate whether or not people or pets can be present during an application. In most cases, there is no need to leave the home.

How do you know if you simply have a few spiders and ants around the house or your bug issue is a real problem?

This may be contingent upon what the pest is. It may also be contingent upon how many insects or spiders you are seeing. A few ants in the house may be a good indicator that you have a colony of ants embedded under a slab or in a wall, and will require treatment. If you have any questions, call a pest control professional. They can provide you with more information on the pest, and what treatment options exist.

What should homeowners be looking for in a qualified pest control company?

Select a company that is licensed, insured, and experienced. A member of the New Mexico Pest Management Association also shows that the company is involved to a certain extent in the industry.

Also, educate yourself on the pest(s) in your area. List your objectives. Do you want environmentally conscious materials used for the prevention of pests? Do you want to work with an honest, reputable company- - or are you willing to risk working with the company that offers the lowest price- - knowing that company might not thoroughly treat the structure.

What sets your business apart from other comparable companies? Is there anything you believe you do better/different?

ABC Pest is different in that, we will never push unwanted or unnecessary services upon our prospective clients. We provide services based on the consumers pest threshold, or tolerance for pests. Every individual is different, and it's our job to help you identify and incorporate the best possible pest management solution for your situation. It's not our job to stick you with an unwanted or unnecessary contract for monthly services.

Once the new homeowner moves in, are there any precautions they should take relating to pest control within the first couple weeks?

Pests commonly left behind from previous owners can include ants, bedbugs, ticks, German cockroaches, or mice. Be vigilant with what you are seeing/feeling in your new environment. Different pests will leave different pieces of evidence. A competent pest management professional should be able to identify the pest based on pest evidence such fecal material or cast skins.

Once you move into your new environment, start with eliminating or minimizing potential harborages on the exterior of the property. Remove unnecessary ground cover and make sure all leaves, etc. are cleaned up. Sealing cracks on the buildings exterior will help prevent pests from entering. Make sure door sweeps and thresholds are properly installed. Correct any moisture issues such as a leaking hose bib or a swamp cooler leak.

On the interior, correct faulty plumbing joints if possible. Seal any unused floor drains, or traps. Properly seal all the way around the toilet. Eliminate any leaks. Modifying any conducive conditions such as poor sanitation, moisture, or excessive harborage areas, will be the first step in living in a pest free environment.

What's the best way for people to get in contact with you?

Simply call us at 505-294-6601 or email us at abcpestmanagement@comcast.net. We are out in the field regularly, so if you don't get us right away, please leave us a message.