By Cindy Mannes, National Pest Management Association
When a pest problem arises within a condominium community, selecting a pest professional to identify, treat, and subsequently “pest-proof” the property is a critical decision and one that cannot be made on price alone. Proper pest management is a health and safety decision; the value of the service should outweigh all other factors. Whether it is an increased mosquito population, the appearance of nuisance birds or a termite infestation, association managers are often tasked with finding a pest management professional who can effectively treat the problem in a timely manner and make certain that it does not reoccur.
Although preventative pest control is ideal, realistically, it is the onset of a serious pest problem, which often compels the search for this professional service. In such a stressful situation, when time and skill are of the essence in solving the pest problem, the last issue an association manager needs to face is the added pressure of finding a reputable pest control company. Essentially, association managers are entrusting a pest professional with the well-being of their condominium property and their residents. Therefore, the selection of this professional must be made in a responsible, thoughtful manner that best serves your condominium community.
Choosing a Pest Professional to Best Serve Your Community
Pest problems in a condominium community necessitate quick, effective action on the part of association managers. By employing common sense and exercising sound judgment, association managers can ensure the hiring of a trustworthy, efficient and expert pest professional. The following three recommendations can assist you in the search for a professional pest control company.
1) Evaluate pest control companies that are members of national, state or local pest management associations
Typically, companies that actively participate in their national, state or local association view pest management as an important part of protecting public health and property. Further, pest professionals who are active within associations are proactively seeking ongoing education and thus, are more prepared to utilize new technologies and implement cutting-edge treatment techniques. An association manager can feel confident that selecting a pest control company with active membership in a professional association is an excellent step in assuring expert treatment and a high level of customer service.
2) Ask other condominium communities for recommendations regarding pest control services
“Word of mouth” references are likely honest evaluations and ones you will believe. When meeting a prospective pest professional, you should be encouraged to ask questions about their pest control practices. You want to find a person with whom you feel comfortable working and with whom you feel comfortable having work in your condominium community. Yet, regardless of the situation, do not rush your decision. You are paying for professional knowledge - hire a person whose judgment you can trust.
3) Educate Yourself
It is critical to have a solid understanding of the significant risks associated with pests and rodents. Two web resources, sponsored by the National Pest Management Association, can provide association managers with important information that can ultimately help them in selecting a pest professional. 1) PestWorld.org is a comprehensive site that addresses all pest-related topics. It provides pest fact sheets, public service announcements and a zip code locator to find local professionals. 2) WhatisIPM.org offers additional information on ways to protect both health and property from pests through IPM techniques. This site also features an interactive “home” where visitors can learn IPM techniques, many of which can be applied to schools and hospitals. Both web resources provide the necessary information to recognize a pest problem and subsequently, select a pest professional to solve the problem.
A Final Note on Selecting a Pest Professional
Selecting a professional pest control company – one that possesses the expertise to fully share in the responsibility of protecting your condominium community from pest threats – is essential to providing a safe and healthy living environment. Association managers play a significant role in protecting the public health and property, as this one decision can determine the success or failure of a pest control/prevention initiative. Although this decision-making process can at first seem daunting, it is a process, which if conducted properly and with thorough research, can demonstrate to your community that their health and safety is of the utmost importance to condominium management.
Cindy Mannes is the vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 5, 000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property, reflected in the continuing education of the pest control professional and the dissemination of timely information to homeowners and businesses. For more information on pests, pest-related topics or to find a pest professional, please visit www.pestworld.org.
**From Condo Management Magazine