Discovering rats in or around your home is disturbing and distressing. Rats multiply quickly, damage property, and can transmit dangerous diseases. Getting rid of them yourself is extremely difficult. Your best option is to hire a professional rat removal and exclusion company. Here’s a detailed guide on how to find the best rat removal service near Houston:
Research Local Rat Control Companies
Start your search online looking for rat exterminators and pest control companies in your city or zip code. Search terms like “rat removal [your area]” and “rat control near me” will bring up local companies.
Spend time browsing through company websites and reading service descriptions. Make a list of 3-5 companies that specifically mention rat removal and highlight their experience with different rat extermination methods.
Check out review sites like Google and Yelp to see real customer feedback about companies you’re considering. Look for consistent 5 star ratings and positive reviews related to rat work. Avoid companies with no or few reviews.
Verify Licensing and Insurance Coverage
Reputable rat removal companies should hold all required state and local licenses for this type of work. They should also carry general liability insurance and workers compensation coverage.
Ask to see proof of valid licensing and insurance. Unlicensed or uninsured companies are too risky to hire. Proper licensing and insurance protects you from liability.
Look for Experienced Rat Removal Professionals
Find out how many years the company has been in business doing rat extermination. Look for an established company with 5+ years experience successfully tackling rat infestations.
Make sure the technicians are formally trained in effective rat removal methods and hold any necessary permits or certifications. Their expertise and knowledge are key for eliminating your rat problem.
Ask About Their Rat Removal Process
A quality rat exterminator will inspect your entire property to find all the rats’ entry points, nests, food sources, etc. They’ll explain their process for trapping, exclusion, sanitizing, and preventing future rat infestations.
Find out if they use humane methods and avoid poisons. Trapping and exclusion are most effective. Make sure they remove dead rats and also seal entry points. Understand the full scope of their rat removal services.
Get a Written Estimate
A thorough inspection should precede a written estimate for total costs. Get detailed estimates from 2-3 different companies to compare pricing for the same work.
Cost will depend on the extent of the infestation, but a very low bid may indicate corners will be cut. Be wary of vague verbal estimates — a quality company will provide a written breakdown of all rat removal services needed.
Check Backgrounds and Credentials
Go beyond licenses and insurance when vetting companies. Find out what training and credentials the technicians have in rat control work. Do they belong to any pest management associations?
Membership in organizations like the National Pest Management Association shows commitment to continuing training and ethical, best-practice methods.
Ask About Guarantees
Many extermination companies offer guarantees against future rat infestations. However, guarantees vary widely in duration and coverage.
Read the fine print! Know exactly what’s covered and for how long. Check if follow up services are included if rats return. A solid guarantee proves the company stands behind its rat removal work.
Get and Check References
Quality rat removal professionals will furnish client references upon request. Take the time to contact references and ask about their experience.
Inquire if the company permanently solved the rat problem, not just temporary extermination. Were they satisfied with the technician’s courteousness, promptness and cleanliness? References can give key insights on what to expect.
Compare Quotes Carefully
With estimates from different companies in hand, you can now carefully compare costs. Consider factors like experience, training, guarantees and references as you review pricing.
Higher cost may be worthwhile for greater expertise and service. But look for discounts and special offers that provide value. Just make sure to get all details of the work in writing first.
Read the Rat Removal Contract Closely
Schedule work only after the contract is signed. Read contracts thoroughly before signing. Make sure the work described matches your expectations and the company’s estimate.
Look for contract clarity on number of service visits, trapping methods, sanitizing, cleanup and guarantees. Question anything that seems unclear or concerning. Don’t feel pressured to sign on the spot.
Hire the Best Rat Control Company
Following these guidelines will lead you to the most qualified, reputable rat removal professionals in your area. Investing in expert exterminator and exclusion services is far more effective and affordable than attempting rat removal yourself.
Be diligent and take time to research companies, check credentials, and compare quotes. The small effort pays off in hiring a stellar local company that will eliminate your rat infestation completely and prevent rats from returning.
