If you need an exterminator, it might be tempting to just call the first name you see online or in the phone book. However, if you want a good exterminator, you need to be on the lookout for these 4 things:

1.An exterminator who doesn’t rely solely on chemicals
Sure, chemicals are a very effective form of pest control, but they can also be a dangerous one. If you have small kids or pets running around your home, you can’t leave poisonous baits and traps out that they might mistake for treats or toys.

If you don’t want your home to turn into a toxic fume haven just because you have a pest problem, a good exterminator will understand – and he will work with you to find a solution that’s more non-toxic.

2.An exterminator who understands termite control
Termites are a dangerous pest to deal with because they can cause so much damage so quickly. And, unfortunately, they operate a little differently than the average pest does. Just because someone really understands pest control doesn’t necessarily mean that they understand all of the nuances of termite control.

If you think your home may have fallen victim to termites, you need to look for a termite control expert. If an exterminator hems and haws when you ask him about his termite experience, find another one.

3.An exterminator who crafts a plan based on your specific pest problem

Pest control is not a one-size-fits-all industry. The type of pest you’re dealing with will play a huge role in the pest control plan that your exterminator comes up with. For example, solving a roach problem is very different from solving a mouse problem – just like eliminating ants is very different from eliminating fleas.

If your exterminator tries to sell you a pest control plan before he knows exactly what kind of pest you’re dealing with, he’s not the right choice for you.

4.An exterminator who believe in prevention as much as elimination
Good pest control starts with keeping pests out in the first place. A good exterminator will come up with an immediate plan for getting rid of your pest problem. Then, he will come up with a plan to keep pests out of your home altogether. After taking a look around your home, your exterminator might find tiny cracks or holes in your foundation that are giving pests a way inside. Or, he may discover that your overgrown bushes have become a haven for rodents.

Unless you get an exterminator that works as hard on prevention as he does on elimination, you may never totally get rid of your pest problem.