Best 10 Pest Control Companies in Wheeling, IL

Wheeling is a densely-populated place, so pest infestations start and spread quickly. Whether you're dealing with mice or bed bugs, you want an innovative and proactive exterminator by your side to stop nuisance critters before they can take hold.

Below, find our list of the best pest control companies in Wheeling, who can help you solve any kind of pest problem.

How To Choose a Pest Control Company

Choosing the best pest control treatment for you is key. The qualifications of and treatment methods used by a company are important to consider, as are its years of experience and reputation in customer reviews. Of course, you also want to consider cost.

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

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

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets minimum standards of competency for pesticide applicators, but licensure is overseen at the state level. All pesticide applicators and their supervisors in Illinois must be licensed through the proper state regulatory agencies.

Is the company a member of any professional organizations?

A pest control company can optionally apply for additional certifications from trade organizations like QualityPro in order to support its standards and methods. One particular certification is the GreenPro Service Certification, which is given when a company can demonstrate that its methods are more environmentally friendly. Companies that receive this certification also need to maintain certain training standards for employees.

There are several professional organizations in which pest control companies can hold membership. While not mandatory, membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) or state-level organizations help show a company's reputability. In the NPMA and other organizations, pest control companies have access to education, resources, and a network of other professionals with whom to share best practices.

Professional Experience and Specialties

The number of years that a pest control company has been in business can shed some light on its experience dealing with pests in your area. Customer reviews or the company's website itself can also inform you whether it has the skills and experience needed to eliminate the particular pests that are plaguing you. If you cannot find the answers to your questions online, calling a representative is an easy way to learn about the company's areas of expertise.

Reviews and Recommendations

You can browse reviews and recommendations on social media or local review sites, view a company's rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or check its licensure status through the Illinois licensing board.

Cost of Services and Guarantees

Things like the size of your house, your location, the type of pest being treated, and other factors can all influence the cost of pest control.

You can look into whether a company provides free on-site estimates (to determine if it fits in your budget) and what type of guarantees it offers. Often, a company will guarantee that if it does not take care of your pest problem, it will continue treatment until it does.

Safety and Treatment Methods

Your choice of pest control company might be influenced by how environmentally friendly a provider's pest control servicesare, in addition to how safe its methods are around your family and pets.

Safety

All pesticides used by your company (except those that are classified as minimum-risk) need to be registered with the EPA. Your pest control technician should provide information on each pesticide they are using. They should inform you whether the pesticides are low toxicity or non-toxic, and if not, what safety precautions will be taken.

Treatment Methods

Many pest control companies have begun using more natural and eco-friendly treatment methods before, or instead of, harsh chemical pesticides. Some utilize a program called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The steps of IPM are as follows:

1. Figure out what pests are causing the problem and assess whether immediate action is needed.
2. Determine the best and safest course of action.
3. Use a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, and physical controls to manage the pest problem.
4. Use chemical controls only when required, and always along with other controls for effective long-term pest control management.
5. Observe the results and provide additional pest control as needed.

Common Household Pests in Wheeling

Not all pests are equally pervasive in Wheeling. Some species that you should keep an eye out for include the following:

• Ants: Ants can be found in just about every part of Illinois. Large carpenter ants can be even more of a problem than regular soil ants, as they can cause structural damage to your home.
• Mice: Telltale signs of mice include chewed wires and droppings around your home. Mice tend to frequent attics or areas where food is stored.
• Spiders: You may find spiders in your basement, attic, or other dark, damp areas. Most spiders are harmless and pose no threat to humans, but you still don't want a spider infestation in your house.

Sources

• EPA
• National Pest Management Association