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Pest ControlMay 18, 2023

Dangers of DIY Pest Control: When to Call the Professionals

Dangers of DIY Pest Control: When to Call the Professionals


As a homeowner, it’s natural to want to handle pest problems independently. After all, DIY pest control can save you money, and it’s convenient. But while there are some instances where DIY pest control can be effective, there are also times when it’s dangerous and even counterproductive.

In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 dangers of DIY pest control and when it’s best to call in the professionals.

10 Dangers of DIY Pest Control

Home-owners are exposed to the following ten dangers:

Danger #1: Misidentification

Top view of a person reaching for a cup of tea on a wooden table with a camera and phone.

One of the most significant dangers of DIY pest control is misidentifying the pest problem. Without proper identification, you could be using the wrong treatment, which could be ineffective and dangerous. Professionals are trained to identify pests accurately and provide the most appropriate treatment.

Danger #2: Ineffective Treatments

Many over-the-counter pest control products are not as effective as professional-grade treatments. DIY treatments can provide only temporary relief, leaving you with a persistent pest problem that will require the attention of a professional pest control company.

Danger #3: Exposure to Chemicals

Many pest control products contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful if not used correctly. DIY pest control can expose you and your family to these chemicals, potentially causing health problems. Professionals are trained to use chemicals safely and can take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your home.

Danger #4: Damage to Property

Some pests, like termites, can cause significant damage to your home’s structure. DIY pest control methods may be ineffective at eradicating these pests, resulting in further damage to your property. Professionals have the knowledge and tools necessary to eradicate pests effectively, preventing further damage to your home.

Danger #5: Increased Pest Resistance

DIY pest control methods can cause pests to become resistant to certain treatments. This resistance can make it more challenging to eliminate pests from your home. Professionals use a variety of treatments and techniques to prevent pests from becoming resistant and to ensure long-term pest control.

Danger #6: Spreading the Infestation

Without proper training, DIY pest control methods can inadvertently spread an infestation to other parts of your home. Professionals can contain the infestation and prevent it from spreading to other areas of your home.

Danger #7: Lack of Expertise

Pest control professionals have years of experience and training in handling a wide variety of pests. DIY pest control methods may lack the necessary expertise to deal with some pests effectively. Professionals have the knowledge and tools necessary to handle even the most challenging pest problems.

Danger #8: Risk of Injury

Some pests, like bees and wasps, can be dangerous and even deadly if disturbed. DIY pest control methods can put you at risk of injury or even death. Professionals have the equipment and training necessary to handle these pests safely.

Danger #9: Wasted Time and Money

DIY pest control methods may seem like a cost-effective solution, but they can end up costing you more in the long run. If DIY treatments are effective, you may save time and money on treatments that don’t work. Professionals can provide effective pest control solutions that save you time and money in the long run.

Danger #10: Failure to Address the Root Cause

DIY pest control methods may only address the symptoms of a pest problem, rather than the root cause. Professionals can identify the root cause of the infestation and provide a long-term solution that addresses the underlying problem.

When to Call a Pest Control Company?

You will need to call a pest control company in the following situations:

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1. The Infestation is Severe

If you have a severe infestation, attempting to handle the problem yourself can be dangerous and ineffective. Professional pest control companies have the experience and tools necessary to safely and effectively eliminate pests in your home.

2. You’re Not Sure What Type of Pest You’re Dealing With

Identifying the type of pest you’re dealing with can be difficult, especially if you’re not familiar with their behavior and habits. A pest control company can identify the type of pest and recommend the best course of action.

3. You’ve Tried DIY Methods with No Success

If you’ve attempted DIY pest control methods with no success, it’s time to call in the professionals. A pest control company can assess the severity of the infestation and recommend the most effective treatment options.

4. The Pest is Dangerous or Potentially Harmful

Some pests, such as wasps, bees, and rodents, can be dangerous or potentially harmful to humans. Attempting to remove these pests without proper training and equipment can lead to serious injuries. A pest control company has the necessary tools and experience to safely handle these pests and remove them from your home.

5. You Want to Prevent Future Infestations

Preventative measures are an essential part of home pest control. A pest control company can provide ongoing preventative treatments to ensure that pests do not return to your home. These preventative measures can save you time and money in the long run by preventing future infestations and the damage they can cause.

Conclusion

In conclusion, DIY pest control may seem like an easy and cost-effective solution, but it can be dangerous and counterproductive. Misidentification, exposure to chemicals, and ineffective treatments are just a few of the risks associated with DIY pest control. To ensure effective, safe, and long-term home pest control, it’s best to call in the professionals. A pest control company can provide the expertise and tools necessary to identify the pest problem accurately, provide the most appropriate treatment, and prevent further damage or infestation. Additionally, professionals can save you time and money in the long run by providing effective pest control solutions that address the root cause of the problem.

When choosing a pest control company, make sure to do your research and choose a company with a proven track record of success and a commitment to using safe and effective treatments. Look for a company that offers a range of services, including preventative measures and long-term solutions, and is willing to work with you to develop a customized pest control plan that meets your specific needs.

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Why Universal

How We Compare to Other Pest Control Companies

Not every pest control company in Hampton Roads offers the same thing. Here is a straight comparison of what you get with Universal Pest Control and what is common elsewhere in the industry.

Comparison of Universal Pest & Termite, Inc. against common practice among other pest control companies serving Hampton Roads.
UniGuard ProgramExclusive
Universal Pest Control

Termite protection and full pest control combined in one membership for one low monthly payment — from $59/month, with the termite warranty and quarterly pest service included together.

Most pest control companies

Termite protection and pest control are usually sold as two separate agreements, with two renewals and two bills to keep track of.

SmartPay financingExclusive
Universal Pest Control

$0-down payment options on termite treatments, baiting systems, and repairs, so the work can start before payday. Simple, predictable monthly payments.

Most pest control companies

Financing, where it is offered, is commonly arranged separately through a third-party lender.

Pest Guard Attic Insulation™Exclusive
Universal Pest Control

Hampton Roads' only licensed Pest Guard Insulation™ installer, through our sister company Universal Insulation Doctor — insulation manufactured with an EPA-registered pest preventative, so the replacement itself resists the insects that ruined the original.

Most pest control companies

Attic insulation is typically referred out, and standard fiberglass has no pest deterrent built into the material.

Total Home Health Network
Universal Pest Control

Pest and termite control, attic insulation, and duct cleaning coordinated under one roof through the Universal family of companies — one point of contact for the whole job, done in the right order.

Most pest control companies

Pest control only. Insulation and duct work are usually booked with separate vendors on separate timelines.

A+ BBB rating
Universal Pest Control

BBB accredited since 2007 with an A+ rating, earned through consistent, honest work in the same community.

Most pest control companies

Accreditation and ratings vary by company — worth checking before you book anyone.

26+ years in business
Universal Pest Control

Protecting Hampton Roads homes since 2000 — more than 26 years in the same market, with over 100,000+ homes serviced.

Most pest control companies

Tenure in the area varies widely; newer branches and recently opened franchises are common.

Family owned & operated
Universal Pest Control

Owned and run by a family that has lived in Hampton Roads their whole lives. The people who answer the phone and the crews at your door are your neighbors.

Most pest control companies

Ownership varies — many local branches are franchises of national brands, with crews dispatched from outside the area.

Guarantees in writing
Universal Pest Control

Pest-Free Guarantee and Termite-Free Guarantee: if pests come back between scheduled visits, so do we, at no extra charge. Free inspections, plus same-day and next-day service.

Most pest control companies

Retreatment terms, callback windows, and what counts as covered differ from contract to contract.

The highlighted Universal Pest & Termite column reflects services we provide directly or through the Universal family of companies. The “Most pest control companies” column describes common industry practice in general terms and is not a statement about any particular company — some companies may offer services that are similar, so ask any provider exactly what their plan, warranty, and quote include before you sign. Financing on approved credit.