But hiring a pest control company is a wise investment when it comes to ensuring the safety and security our most important investment: our home. But before that begins, most companies will require you to sign a pest control service agreement. This agreement describes the service, pests to be treated and terms of your rights and responsibilities as our client. Knowing what the fine print says will help you ensure you’re getting the protection and service you want — with no hidden surprises. In this article, Get started with getting to know the summary that can help you interpret and get the most out of your Reston pest control service agreement.
Know What Pests Are Covered
By far one of the most critical portions of this type of service agreement is the covered pests list. Many pest control contracts don’t cover all pests. Although general pests such as ants, spiders, cockroaches, and mice are usually covered in general service agreements, more problematic pests such as termites, bedbugs and wildlife require an additional service or specific treatment. If you’re worried about specific pests that are prevalent in Reston — like mosquitoes in the summer, or stink bugs in the fall — confirm that they’re included in the contract. If they’re not, inquire about adding them, or whether a separate treatment plan is needed.
Get to Know the Service Frequency and Duration
Pest control contracts commonly include a schedule of how frequently treatment will occur and for how long. It might be monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly, depending on the needs of your home and local pest activity. In Reston’s fickle weather, you may need to come a bit more frequently in the high seasons. Be clear about whether the contract is for just one job, for a certain period of time (one client of mine puts clients on a 12-month contract, which auto-renews), or a recurring contract.
Read the Guarantee or Warranty
A good pest control firm will usually have some sort of guarantee. That means if those pests come back within a certain time frame after treatment, the company will return to retreat your home at no cost to you. Here is what you will want the agreement to specify:
- What is covered by the warranty
- How long the guarantee is (usually 30 to 90 days)
- Re-treatment scheduling process
In Reston VA, where pests that are seasonal could be quick to return, this guarantee helps to establish peace of mind.
Explain How Pricing and Payment Works
A pest control contract with good wording, can prevent misunderstandings and complaints from occurring. This will include the price for each visit or service, any initial inspection fee, and whether you’ll be charged separately for certain treatments or types of pests. Be sure to also check:
- When payment is due (upon service or on a payment schedule)
- If there’s a cancellation fee
- If there are any incentives, such as a discount when you pay the full amount upfront, or if you sign a longer contract
Some companies in Reston may give you a bundle pricing or specials for homeowners which are known to have a problem with pests, especially if the latter is present during the peak pest seasons in Reston. So it’s a good idea to ask about it before you sign their contract and finally hire them.
A pest control service contract or agreement is an important paper that safeguards both the owner and the company. By taking the time to look at each section — especially the pests included, service frequency, guarantee, price and legal terms — you will be in a better position to select the right company and prevent any unwelcome costs or areas without coverage. In Reston, where the types and levels of pest activity can change with the seasons, this commitment is even more crucial, and with pest-prevention service customized according to the conditions of your community, no one knows Reston better.
