Every spring concerned homeowners ask how to select a termite control service once they know they have termites, states David Robson, University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator. Here are some practical guidelines to follow:

1. Do not panic. There is no need to become frightened or unduly alarmed if you learn that termites are or may be attacking your home. These insects work slowly and your house will not be ruined or collapse overnight.
2. Take your time. Do not permit anyone to rush you into purchasing termite control service. Delay of a few weeks or months will not make any difference. There is always time to purchase this service wisely and at your convenience.
3. Purchase Your Services From A Reliable Firm. Buy termite control service with the same care and discrimination that you would use in the purchase of any other service for your property. Here are some of the ways that you can investigate before you invest.
1. Illinois has a pesticide use and applicator law under which all commercial pest control firms must operate. Check to see the firm's credentials.
2. If a firm offers references of work done in the past, take time to check these references carefully.
3. If the firm is located in your own town or city, check to make sure that it is a responsible firm and that it has an established place of business. This can be done through the Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau.
4. If the firm is out-of-town, it is even more important that you make sure that it is reliable. Most fraudulent operators work in communities where they are not known. Ask for references and check them carefully.
4. Beware Of Firms that:
1. Quote a price based on the gallonage of material used.
2. Profess to have a secret formula or ingredient for termite control.
3. Have no listed phone number.
4. Show up unexpectedly and use evidence of termites in trees, etc., as an excuse to inspect the house.
5. Also want to trim trees and do general repair work as part of the "deal".
6. Cater to elderly or infirm people who are living alone.
7. Claim to be endorsed by University of Illinois.
5. Know The Terms Of The Contract. Ask your termite control specialist to provide you with a written statement of the work he proposes to do and cost. He will then give you time to consider the estimate. It is customary to guarantee termite control work, either on a year-to-year basis, or for a 5-year period. Make sure you know exactly what guarantee the firm offers. Remember that a guarantee is no better than the person or firm who gives it to you, cautions Robson. A guarantee is not evidence that a firm is reliable. Most fraudulent operators use a showy contract and guarantee as a part of their sales promotion. You will probably be asked to sign a work order when you engage a firm. Understand clearly what obligations you are assuming and what you are getting in return.
6. Most Firms Are Reliable. Remember that most pest control firms are reliable and legitimate business organizations who are respected in their communities. Most fraudulent operators are "confidence men" whose only purpose is to swindle people out of their money.

Source:

David Robson

University of Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator

Springfield Center

Phone: 217/782-6515