Questions to ask before anyone sprays

The National Pesticide Information Center says to ask whether the technician's licence matches the job, whether the company uses integrated pest management, how long it has done this kind of work, and whether it will put an estimate in writing. It also says to ask the names of the products, their EPA registration numbers, where they will be used, and what you must do before the visit, including keeping children and pets away.

Missouri Extension says a careful company identifies the pest before it recommends a treatment, and will discuss non-chemical options. It says to avoid door-to-door pressure and a long contract signed on the spot.

None of these questions produces a price. If a company will not name the product or show a licence, that is a reason to get another written estimate, not a reason for this site to name a fee.

Sources: NPIC, University of Missouri Extension.