WV.gov > News > Think You Have Bed Bugs in Your Home or Business? Department of Agriculture Tips on Hiring an Exterminator
Think You Have Bed Bugs in Your Home or Business? Department of Agriculture Tips on Hiring an Exterminator
2/8/2011
Bed bugs have become a growing problem nationwide, and West Virginia may see an uptick in infestations, according to the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA).
Bed bugs are easily transported from place to place, and can be very difficult to eradicate from buildings and homes once they are established.
“The Department does not conduct residential treatments, but we do license the companies in the state that handle pesticides commercially,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass. “We want to distribute the following tips from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) to help consumers make good decisions when it comes to hiring a contractor to deal with bed bug infestations.”
- Always deal with a qualified and licensed pest management company.
- Look for companies with experience dealing with this challenging pest.
- If a sizable amount of money is involved, get bids from several companies before signing a contract. Don’t allow yourself to be rushed into making a decision.
- Be sure you understand the nature of work to be performed, extent of the infestation and what is covered by the service agreement before signing a contract.
- Check to see if the pest control company has liability insurance to cover any damages to your house and furnishings.
- If a guarantee is included, know what it covers, how long it is in force, what kind of continuing control, prevention and management will be necessary.
- Shop for the best value, not necessarily the lowest price. Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eradicate. Controlling them may require multiple treatments and/or a variety of methods
If you have any questions about pest management companies, information is available by calling Grant Bishop with WVDA’s Pesticide Regulatory Programs Unit at 304-558-2209.
Contact Information
Gus R. Douglass
douglass@ag.state.wv.us