Pest control vetting checklist

What this free checklist is for

The shieldnest-pest-control-vetting-checklist.pdf is a simple tool you can use before you hire anyone. It helps you slow down, compare options, and get the details in writing.

This checklist is for people dealing with common pest problems like ants, rodents, termites, roaches, mosquitoes, or bed bugs. It is also helpful if English is not your first language and you want a clear list of questions to ask.

Use it to check:
- whether the company is licensed and state-certified for pest control in your area
- what pest they believe they are treating
- what the typical cost range may be for that kind of service
- what products or methods they plan to use
- how they will help protect children, pets, and food during and after treatment
- whether they offer lower-toxicity or eco options when those fit the job
- what follow-up visits, prep work, and exclusions are included

ShieldNest is a free matching service. We do not treat pests or inspect properties. We help you get connected with local companies so you can compare, ask questions, and choose who to hire. If you still need help identifying the pest first, start with common house pests.

How to use the checklist before you hire

Bring the checklist with you when you call or meet with pest control companies. The goal is not to become an expert. The goal is to make sure you are getting clear answers.

1. Write down the pest problem. Note where you saw it, how often, and how long it has been happening.
2. Ask each company the same core questions. That makes it easier to compare plans fairly.
3. Verify the license yourself. Do not rely only on a sales pitch. Ask for the company license number and check your state records.
4. Ask for the treatment plan in writing. Confirm what is included, what is not included, and whether follow-up visits cost extra.
5. Ask about safety steps. Before any treatment, confirm how to protect kids, pets, food, dishes, and prep surfaces. Read product labels and follow all pesticide-safety directions.
6. Compare honest price ranges, not promises. A one-time visit often runs about $150-$350, recurring service often runs about $45-$120 per visit, rodent work often runs about $200-$600, termite treatment often runs about $500-$2,500+, bed bug treatment often runs about $300-$1,500+, and mosquito service often runs about $70-$150 per visit. These are typical estimates only. The real price depends on the pest, the size and condition of the property, how severe the infestation is, the plan, and your area.

If you want a simple way to start comparing providers, you can get matched with licensed local companies at no cost through ShieldNest.

What good answers should look like

A solid company usually gives plain, specific answers. Be careful if someone is vague, pushes you to sign immediately, or avoids putting details in writing.

Look for answers like these:
- Identification: They explain what pest they think it is and why.
- Scope: They tell you what areas they plan to treat and what they will monitor.
- Prep: They explain what you need to move, clean, seal, wash, or store before service.
- Safety: They explain re-entry times if needed, label directions, and how to keep children, pets, and food safe.
- Options: They can discuss non-chemical steps, exclusion, sanitation, trapping, and lower-toxicity choices where appropriate.
- Follow-up: They tell you whether more than one visit may be needed and that pests can come back.
- Price clarity: They explain whether the price is for one visit, a plan, or extra work like sealing entry points.

For help reviewing companies side by side, see how to vet a pest control company.

Download it and use it while you compare

Keep the checklist on your phone, print it, or use it during calls. It is most useful when you talk to 2-3 licensed companies and ask the same questions each time.

Remember:
- You compare quotes.
- You choose who to hire.
- You confirm the price and plan in writing before any treatment.
- You verify the license yourself.

If a company recommends pesticide treatment, ask how they will protect children, pets, and food, and ask whether there are eco-friendly pest control or lower-toxicity options that fit your situation.

Download: shieldnest-pest-control-vetting-checklist.pdf