When it comes to protecting your home and property, pest control is essential. Pests can spread disease, cause damage to buildings and fixtures, contaminate food, and present other risks. To address these threats, pest control is an important part of property care.

Pest control efforts target various types of organisms, including rodents, insects, spiders, mites and centipedes, as well as nematodes and fungi. Depending on the pest, the methods used to control the population can vary. Exclusions and exclusion systems help prevent pests from entering a property, while traps and baits can be used to capture and eliminate those that have already invaded. Biological control methods may be employed to target specific species without the use of potentially dangerous chemicals.

In an effort to keep people and the environment safe, responsible pest control practitioners use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques. IPM approaches include continual monitoring and assessment to identify potential problems early. Physical, chemical, and biological products may be used, but the emphasis is on nonchemical techniques whenever possible.

If you suspect a pest infestation, it’s important to call a qualified pest professional right away. Depending on the species, they may need to assess the risk posed to people and property before implementing a pest control plan.

Pest control depends on accurate identification of the creatures. Not all pests require the same type of treatment, and some may require conversion to another form of control if chemical treatments are not effective.

Cost for pest control service will vary, depending on the size of the problem and the pest. A one-time treatment might cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000, while ongoing services could range from $25 to $50 a month.

Pest control is an important part of caring for the home and protecting its inhabitants from the harmful effects of pests. It’s best to contact a professional for help if you have any suspicions of an infestation, as the longer it goes untreated, the greater the damage and risks may be.