Do inspect crawlspaces and inside slab areas, advises one PMP. Photo: ©istock.com/defun/Bluberries
Our surveyed experts weigh in on the most essential Dos when it comes to termite management.
“When conducting a termite renewal inspection, take time to make sure there haven’t been any additions or changes to the structure made since your last visit to that account.” — David Taylor, President, Shamrock Pest Control, Mesquite, Texas
“If you notice something that might give you problems in the future, make the customer aware of it immediately and take pictures of it. During one termite treatment, I pulled back the carpet and noticed it was cut a quarter-inch short and not installed properly. I notified the client, took pictures, then informed the client there might be problems when the carpet goes back into place.” — Edward F. Schwartz, Owner, Paladin Pest Control, Colorado Springs, Colo.
“Make sure your technicians are always properly trained with the most up-to-date industry standards and label knowledge.” — Tony DeJesus, Technical Director, Big Blue Bug Solutions, Province, R.I.
“Look around when you get to the property, and take note of how the property is kept and maintained. Be sure to leave the property in the same — or better — condition when you leave.” — Stacy A. Durfee, President, ABC Pest Management, Virginia Beach, Va.
“Remember subterranean termites require a moisture source, so be sure to check wood moisture content readings.” — Kevin Hathorne, BCE, Technical Director, Terminix Services, Columbia, S.C.
“Review the inspection with the client, using your results, treatment specifications, suggestions for the client, graphs [of the property], pricing and any guarantees you might offer. Get it all in writing and provide a copy for the customer. Be sure the customer signs it before you do any work.” — Steve Christiaens, President, Awesome Pest Control, Salt Lake City, Utah
“When making a detailed diagram of the property you’re treating, be sure to include areas of infestation, areas where wells and French drains are located, and any other areas of concern.” — Tony DeJesus, Technical Director, Big Blue Bug Solutions, Province, R.I.
“Calibrate your treatment tool often!” — Jay Bruesch, BCE, Technical Director, Plunkett’s Pest Control, Fridley, Minn.
“Discuss the scope of service with the customer because no two jobs are exactly the same. Make sure they understand the process and know what to expect. This will help you avoid complaint calls.” — Josh Alpert, President, Green Earth Pest Control, New York
“When conducting your inspection, don’t forget areas such as crawlspaces and inside slab areas.” — Kevin Hathorne, BCE, Technical Director, Terminix Services, Columbia, S.C.
“If you damage something during inspection or service, such as accidentally slicing through a cable or cutting a sprinkler line while trenching the exterior perimeter,tell your customer immediately.” — Edward F. Schwartz, Owner, Paladin Pest Control, Colorado Springs, Colo.
“Check the property’s yard and, if possible, ask neighbors about any termite activity they might have.” — Jay Bruesch, BCE, Technical Director, Plunkett’s Pest Control, Fridley, Minn.
“Remember to post an inspection sticker after you’ve completed a wood-destroying insect (WDI) or wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspection wherever your state requires.” — David Taylor, President, Shamrock Pest Control, Mesquite, Texas
“After each job, do a walk around the property—inside and out—to look for customers’ items moved and not returned to their original spots. Also check for leaks, unsealed drill holes and left-behind tools.” — Tony DeJesus, Technical Director, Big Blue Bug Solutions, Province, R.I.
“If you’re a company owner, recheck at least one of every five termite treatments. It will save you future headaches. And, when possible, use your best technicians for termite jobs.” — David Huff, Owner, A Plus Pest Management, Cleveland, Tenn.
You can reach PMP Senior Editor Will Nepper at wnepper@northcoastmedia.net or 216-706-3775.
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