Use NPMA bed bugs guidelines to treat bed bugs

Harry Bryan, manages mid-south territory, Nisus Corporation

When I discuss bed bugs, I often reference the National Pest Management Association’s (NPMA’s) Bed Bug Best Management Practices, online at PestWorld.org/all-things-bed-bugs/best-practices. These guidelines can help you educate your customers. In fact, start by educating customers about preparing the area for your service by cleaning and organizing, because clutter will hinder the effectiveness of the service.

Expect a second visit, and incorporate it into your cost of service. Give strict expectations, because heavy infestations require more labor and potentially more technicians. If you think this is the case, make sure you reflect it in the price of your service.
Include the following in your service agreement:

Schedule and completion of services.

• Expectation of re-infestation.
• Areas to be treated.
• Customers’ responsibilities.
• Exemptions and exclusions.

Make sure the service agreement is clear and well written. Most customers are frightened about bed bugs, so by calming them, you gain a better chance of cooperation.

Last but not least, always incorporate customer education: The more they are educated, the more comfortable they will be.