Best 10 Pest Control Companies in Waukegan, IL

Many Waukegan homeowners worry about unwelcome critters such as wasps and bed bugs. Ease your pest concerns by hiring a licensed local exterminator that can stop current infestations and prevent future ones.

Whether your pest problem is large or small, our list of pest control companies in Waukegan can help you choose the right team to resolve it.

How To Choose a Pest Control Company

When choosing a pest control expert, there are several factors that you can consider to be sure you choose the best one for you. A company's qualifications and pest treatment methods are important to consider, as are its years of experience and reputation in customer reviews. Of course, you will also want to think about cost.

Below, we dive into detail on each of these factors.

Does the company have a valid license and permits to perform pest control?

All pesticide applicators (and those that supervise them) must be certified at the state level. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established minimum standards of competency, but any pesticide applicators working in the state of Illinois must be licensed via the necessary state regulatory agencies.

Is the company a member of any professional organizations?

Pest control companies can also obtain optional certifications like the GreenPro Service Certification. This certification is given once a company has proven that its treatment methods are more eco-friendly and demonstrated that it also holds itself up to certain other standards, such as up-to-date training for employees. A company can also earn other certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro to further verify its methods and practices.

There are several professional organizations in which pest control companies can hold membership. Companies can obtain membership in the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), or state-level organizations. NPMA membership provides companies with access to education, resources, and a network of other pest control companies. While not required, membership in professional organizations helps back up a company's reputability.

Professional Experience and Specialties

Typically, a company displays information like years of experience and specialities on its website. Local reviews can also help you figure out if a company has experience dealing with a particular pest in your area. If you're unable to locate the information you need online, you can call the company directly to get the answers to your questions.

Reviews and Recommendations

You can check a company's reputation using local review sites or social media as well as the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can also check with Illinois' licensing board to see the status of a company's license.

Cost of Services and Guarantees

Cost is important when picking a pest control company. Cost may be determined by your location, the size of your house, the type of pest being treated, and other factors.

A pest control company may offer a free on-site estimate to help you match services to your budget. You can also see if it offers a satisfaction guarantee.

Safety and Treatment Methods

Your preferences regarding safety for yourself, any children or pets, and the environment might affect the provider and the treatment methods you choose.

Safety

Your pest control provider should be able to discuss the safety of the pesticides that will be used in your home. They should be able to explain whether the pesticides are low toxicity or non-toxic; if they are not, they should explain what safety precautions they plan to use to protect your family, your pets, and you. Pesticides that pose more than a minimum risk are required to be registered with the EPA.

Treatment Methods

Many companies are making the switch to using more natural and eco-friendly treatment methods before (or in place of) harsh chemical pesticides. Some utilize a program called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:

1. Identify the source of the pest problem and determine whether immediate action is needed.
2. Decide on the safest course of action.
3. Use a combination of physical, cultural, biological, and mechanical controls to manage the pest problem.
4. Employ chemical controls only when required, and always with other techniques for effective long-term pest control management.
5. Observe the results and provide additional pest control methods as needed.

Common Household Pests in Waukegan

Not all pests are equally pervasive in Waukegan. Some species that you should be on the lookout for are these:

• Flies: Flies can be a nuisance in your Waukegan home year-round, but they tend to be more common in warmer weather. You might find flies around sinks or in areas where you keep food.
• Spiders: You may encounter spiders in your basement, attic, or other moist, dark places. Most spiders are harmless and pose no threat to humans, but you still don't want an infestation of them in your home.
• Mice: Some telltale signs of mice include chewed wires and droppings around your house. Frequently, mice can be found in attics or in areas where food is stored.

Sources

• EPA
• National Pest Management Association