How Much Does Pest Control Cost?

 

The Factors That Determine The Cost Of Pest Control

San Jose, United States - January 9, 2023 /Habitat Pest Control/

Nobody likes having pests in their homes or workplaces. Homes are where people want to unwind and spend good times in safety. However, even with their best efforts, homeowners may find that pests have found their way into their homes. Older homes and homes with windows or doors that are not tightly fitted may be more accessible for pests to enter.

If the pests are fewer in number, homeowners may deal with the problem themselves. However, more severe pest infestations will require professional pest control. The cost of pest control is a concern among most homeowners. Property owners can contact some local pest control companies and ask for a pest control quote from each to get an idea of the average cost of pest control in the area. Habitat Pest Control is the leading local pest control company in the Bay Area. Residents who need it can get a pest control specialist to inspect and give a free pest control quote from Habitat Pest Control. In this article, this pest control company provides some information on how much pest control costs.

Factors That Affect The Price Of Pest Control Services

1. The type of pest

Different pests can invade homes, and they need different treatment methods. Therefore, a pest control company cannot give a flat price for their services. Inspection by a professional will help identify the pest, which will bear on the pest control quote.

2. Type of service

Depending on the type of service needed, costs will vary. The types of services pest control companies provide are:

Pest Extermination:

Pest extermination is done when there is an existing pest problem. It may be done using insect traps, sprays, or even tenting and fumigating the home.

Pest removal:

Pest removal is considered when there are creatures that may not be infesting a home but still are a nuisance. It is usually applied for larger pests like squirrels or raccoons. A pest removal expert traps and relocates these pests from the area.

Pest prevention:

Pest prevention consists of regular treatments to keep pests away from home, thus preventing pests even before they become a problem.

3. Frequency of service

The frequency of service will be selected for each client based on the type of pest and pest control methods chosen. When the service is needed more often, costs will also be higher.

4. Size

The size of a building that needs pest control will also impact the cost. Bigger homes have more space for pests to hide into. Pest control professionals will need more time to inspect the building, find the pests' hiding places, and take measures to remove them. Pests like rodents are more skilled in choosing inaccessible areas to hide in, like walls or vents.

5. How severe is the pest infestation

How small or big a pest infestation is will impact the time and material needed for the pest control project.

6. Experience of the pest control experts

Pest control companies offer different prices. Homeowners can check online for information and reviews. They can also get feedback from friends and family who have recently used local pest control services. The price will vary depending on the experience, reputation, and type of service needed.

7. Location

Costs vary from place to place. How close the service is to the home and how prone the area is will also impact the price of pest control services.

How much does pest control cost on average?

Pest control costs vary widely from place to place depending on the factors listed above. Some estimates of the average prices may be available on online portals, giving homeowners an idea of what to expect. But, it is better to get quotes from local pest control companies for a more realistic idea.

While homeowners themselves may manage minor issues with pests, pests that are a threat to the home and more extensive and persistent pest infestations are better handled by professionals. Habitat Pest Control offers residential and commercial pest control services in San Jose and the Bay Area, CA. For a pest control quote, they can be contacted online or via phone at (408) 922-9898.

What To Check in Choosing Commercial Pest Control Service

 Questions To Ask Before Selecting A Commercial Pest Control Company

San Jose, United States - January 13, 2023 /Habitat Pest Control/

Pests are unwelcome anywhere. Like homeowners want pest-free homes, business owners want their property to harbor no pests. Pests can damage property, create hazards, harm employees, and contribute to loss of business and penalties from authorities.

Because of the importance of keeping pests at bay, most businesses have in-place pest prevention strategies. They also engage pest control companies. Habitat Pest Control has been providing commercial pest control services in the Bay Area of California for many years. The company has a reputation for excellence in commercial pest control and conduct in dealing with clients with integrity.

Some questions that must be asked when choosing a pest control company

1. How long has the pest control company been operating?

It is essential to check the experience of the pest control company to ensure their pest control services are reliable, have the expertise, and have an adequate customer base.

2. Is the company licensed and insured?

The pest control company chosen must be licensed by the state. Always confirm that the company has liability insurance.

3. Does the company provide pest control to similar business clients?

When selecting a pest control company, businesses must check if they offer commercial pest control to clients from the same industry as theirs. All pest control companies do not provide commercial services. The ones that do need not work in all industries. For a restaurant owner looking for commercial pest control, knowing that a company is already working with other restaurants shows they have the knowledge and experience to handle their work.

4. Does the pest control company offer Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?

IPM is an industry best practice. It is an effective and environmentally conscious approach to pest management using a combination of common-sense practices. Preventive measures like sanitation and maintenance are part of pest control professionals' customized and proactive solutions.

5. Are the pest control technicians trained?

Pests are constantly evolving and changing, and so are the means and technology used to tackle them. It is essential that the pest control company has an ongoing training program or follows industry-specific standards and certifications. It is also beneficial to check that they conduct background screenings of employees and follow safety protocols.

6. What pests do this pest control company tackle?

Depending on the pest affecting the business or more likely to affect them, businesses must check whether the company offers pest control for those particular pests. They must check what written, guaranteed services are available and if they are standard for all services.

7. Are there any special services or products?

Because companies offer preventive services, some may provide related services, like cleaning.

8. Is the pest control service provided documented?

Pest control companies keep a record of services rendered, which includes pest activities in the building, their hotspots, and measures taken against them. Getting copies of these records helps keep track of services and use them for audits.

9. How does the pest company communicate?

Businesses need to clearly understand the pest situation and what they need to do. Hence, it is vital that the pest control company provides information and is transparent in everything. There should be meetings to discuss progress and concerns, and further strategies.

10. What is the average time the pest control company takes to respond when there is a pest-related emergency?

Businesses may need immediate measures to tackle some pests. It is good to know if emergency services cost more. Knowing if there is an assured response time will help business owners to plan ahead.

Choosing a pest control service is important for businesses. A pest control company will help the business maintain neat and safe environments. This partnership can impact business continuity and profits. Businesses also need to budget for pest control. Habitat Pest Control is committed to providing commercial pest control services in San Jose, CA. Their year-round advanced service eliminates pest problems all through the year. With more than fifteen years of experience in residential and commercial pest control, the use of eco-exempt products based on botanical activities, and prompt, same-day service in the Bay Area, this company is a frontrunner all businesses in the area must consider. Contact Habitat Pest Control online and fill out a form to get a call within 24 hours to fix an inspection by a trained and certified pest control specialist. Businesses can also call Habitat Pest Control on the number (408) 922-9898 for inquiries on commercial pest control.

How To Keep Pests Out of Homes This New Year

 

Tips For A Pest-Free Home

San Jose, United States - January 20, 2023 /Habitat Pest Control/

The new year is always a time for new beginnings and new resolutions. A more organized, neater home is a goal everyone has always had. Especially when a new year begins, families declutter and try to keep homes tidy. Pests are never welcome, and getting them out is desirable for most homeowners, especially when a new year is starting.

There are several measures homeowners can take to prevent pests and get rid of them. But, when these are ineffective, or there is a severe pest infestation, a professional pest control service can be hired. Residential pest control is the primary business of Habitat Pest Control in San Jose and the Bay Area, CA. Their services tackle pests like ants, earwigs, bees, millipedes, centipedes, crickets, spiders, rats, mice, moles, roaches, and many more.

Some tips for homeowners to keep their homes free this new year

1. Keep away holiday decorations carefully

Most homes are decorated for the holidays. Boxes of decorations stowed away in attics, basements, or garages are brought out when the holiday season starts. Pests can live in these boxes that are barely touched for almost a year. So, when keeping the decorations back, try to take some steps to prevent pests. If possible, avoid using cardboard boxes, as they attract certain pests. They also allow pests to make their way in. In contrast, using plastic storage boxes that can be closed tightly will keep the pests out. Artificial trees to be reused must also be packed in a reusable container not made of cardboard.

2. Keep the home clean, especially the kitchens

Keeping homes clean is the primary way to limit pests, especially in the kitchen, which can be a food haven if not kept clean. Adding a quick night cleaning routine to the new year's resolutions is a great way to keep pests away. Ensure all surfaces, especially in the kitchen and dining area, are wiped clean and leave no crumbs on the floor. A dusting, sweeping, and vacuuming routine helps reduce the risk of pests like fleas, ants, spiders, and carpet beetles.

3. Take out the trash

All grownups now know why taking out the trash every night is important. Avoiding a stuffed trash can helps cut down on pests. When left overnight, the smell of trash attracts pests. Try to use a trash can with a lid. Taking out the garbage every night keeps homes fresher and safer from pests.

4. Seal openings

The smallest cracks, gaps, and cracks allow pests to squeeze their way into homes. The vulnerable areas must be inspected regularly. Weatherstripping must be done if the caulk around windows or doors has cracks or gaps. A well-sealed home is also more energy-efficient.

5. Declutter homes

The new year is the perfect time to declutter homes. It is a great way to keep pests away, as cluttered spaces harbor pests like cockroaches, spiders, rodents, etc. Clutter also makes people reluctant to clean or do a mediocre job of it, which makes it more conducive for pests. Basements, garages, and attics must also be decluttered.

6. Keep yards tidy

Yards that are not maintained well give pests ample space to live and hide. Bushes and trees must be trimmed. Tree branches that allow pests to access homes easily. Mowing lawns also acts as a deterrent as pests prefer long grass that keeps them hidden from predators.

Any standing water in the yard attracts pests like mosquitos. So, getting rid of standing water is good to control mosquitoes.

7. Fix leaks

Any leaks inside or outside the plumbing system or appliances must be repaired. Pests like to be near a water source, and leaks are just that.

8. Get professional residential pest control

A pest control company can be hired if there is a pest infestation or homeowners are not confident in managing pests. With trained and skilled professionals, identify pest problems that may occur and prevent them. Pest control services will also tackle existing pest problems.

Habitat Pest Control in San Jose, CA, works to provide residential pest control of the best quality. The pest control company has proven methods for treating different pests and offers Written Guaranteed Results. Homeowners who want their homes to be havens for themselves and not for pests can contact Habitat Pest Control by calling (408) 922-9898.

How To Keep Pests Out of Homes This New Year, Images 4/1/23

 

What To Check Choosing Commercial Pest Control Service, Images 4/1/23

How Much Does Pest Control Cost?, Images 4/1/23

 

Pests in Winter

 

During Winter, Is Pest Control Needed In California?

San Jose, United States - December 16, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Winters are when many want to stay indoors and relax or engage in leisure activities with family and friends. There is a general idea that pest control is not needed in winter. In California, winters are milder than in many other areas in the country. But, the lower temperatures can cause some changes in the activities of some pests. Many insects hibernate in winter as they are cold-blooded. However, they can gain entry to heated homes and commercial buildings, and with access to food and water inside, lead to a pest infestation. Rodents can also seek refuge in homes. Habitat Pest Control provides reliable pest and rodent control services in San Jose, CA. Their technicians know the pest pressures of the local environment and offer customized treatment plans to find and treat the foundation of a pest infestation.

Some information on winter pests

1. Ground squirrels: They are more likely to be a nuisance in the garden than indoors. But they breed in winter in California and are active. They can cause damage in the yard through their chewing and burrowing activities.
2. Ants: Ants are among the most common pests in California. In winter, they stay in large colonies and invade homes or commercial spaces to gain access to food, water, and shelter. So, homes may need ant extermination. If ants cannot get into a sheltered environment, they move several feet below the soil to a more tolerable temperature.
3. Rats and mice: These rodents stay active in winter. They eat more food in winter to maintain their body temperature. They also try to get shelter in a warm place. They dig burrows in the ground or invade outdoor shelters, homes, or commercial buildings. They can stay in crawl spaces, attics, and between walls.
4. Spiders: Different kinds of spiders may be seen indoors during winter. Black widow spiders are extremely dangerous and active in cold seasons and may build webs near stairs or doorways. Since these are poisonous, it is safe to be cautious and take measures to control the spider population.
5. Cockroaches: These are insects that can survive extreme weather. Their ability to eat anything and move through the narrowest gaps makes them enter buildings and thrive almost anywhere.
6. Bed bugs: As they feed and thrive in beds, bed linen, and furnishing, which are warm and comfortable even in winter, bed bug infestations can worsen in summer. They can also gain access to homes when people return from a holiday in an infested place. Habitat Pest Control performs bed bug extermination in San Jose.

How to prevent pests?

To protect buildings from pests getting inside for shelter in winter, some steps can be taken. Cracks and holes in the buildings must be sealed. No wood must be stored close to the building as pests dwelling in them can gain access. Homes must be kept dry by mopping spills immediately and ensuring no moisture or standing water is left near refrigerators, sinks, or air conditioning units. Any outdoor buildings and shelters must be inspected regularly and kept clean.

Homeowners and business owners should always be vigilant about pests. There can be an infestation when there is any laxity in measures to prevent these pests. Habitat Pest Control is a pest control company in San Jose with over a decade of experience and offers Written Guaranteed Results. The pest control company’s service includes common pests that cause a nuisance in the area, like ants, bees, earwigs, crickets, centipedes, spiders, rats, birds, cockroaches, fleas, etc. Call (408) 922-9898 for a free inspection and get a pest control quote from Habitat Pest Control in San Jose.

Keeping Pests In Firewood Away

 

Avoiding Pest Infestation From Firewood

San Jose, United States - December 9, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Even in this era of modern conveniences, a crackling fire has the warmth of nostalgia. A wood fireplace lends a rustic charm to a home and is also a heat source. Some pests can gain entry into homes along with firewood brought in for fires. 

While some pests may not be harmful, they can be a nuisance, spoil the ambiance, and a few might become pest infestations. Pests like termites will require professional pest control. Habitat Pest Control in San Jose, CA, provides residential and commercial pest control, including termite extermination. These pest control professionals share how to avoid firewood pests indoors.

Firewood pests

Wood-boring beetles

Beetles that inhabit and feed on the wood are wood-boring beetles. They include long-horned beetles, metallic wood-boring beetles, and bark beetles.

Carpenter ants

These are giant black ants that build nests in wood, but they do not feed on wood. They usually nest in damp or rotting wood. So if firewood is not dry or is left on the ground for long, carpenter ants may start living in it.

Termites

Termites make tunnels and feed on firewood. They appear similar to ants but are whitish.

Others

Other insects and bugs like spiders, cockroaches, pillbugs, praying mantises, wasps, and ants may remain in firewood piles.

Dealing with firewood pests

When the firewood is in a warm indoor environment, insects can emerge from the firewood. They are usually not harmful as the wood in homes is too dry for them to live in or feed on. But these creatures can be a nuisance. When noticed, they can be caught and left outdoors. It is not safe to spray pesticides on firewood. When burned, the chemicals in treated firewood may release toxic fumes.

How to prevent firewood pests

• Keep firewood dry, as bugs do not prefer to live in dry wood. Always store firewood off the ground to allow adequate airflow under the woodpile. It helps to reduce the moisture in a pile.
• Never store firewood near trees as bugs like bark beetles from the firewood can invade trees and damage them.
• Make sure to use older wood first rather than newly cut wood. This practice prevents the buildup of wood for a long. More pests tend to end up in wood left unmoved for a long time.
• Keeping a cover over new cut wood and placing it in sunny spots will help keep bugs away.
• Firewood must never be stored indoors as the wood piles attract other household pests like rodents.
• Do not stack firewood against the home, garage, shed, etc.; it must always be kept at least three feet away from structures. This helps to dry out the wood faster and will also help prevent the entry of firewood pests into the buildings.
• It is better to use locally sourced firewood as it will not have insects from other areas in them. When firewood from other places is stored, the pests from those areas gain entry to this locality, damaging trees and affecting the ecosystem. It is better to use local firewood on camping trips rather than carry it from home for the same reason.

While firewood may not always bring in harmful pests, it can have pests that are a nuisance. Firewood must be stored to reduce the risk of dangerous creatures using it as a shelter. Homeowners can avail of pest control services for household pests when needed. Habitat Pest Control provides commercial and residential pest control in San Jose. For pest control services that utilize eco-exempt products, they can be contacted. For prompt, same-day pest control service in San Jose and the Bay Area, call Habitat Pest Control at (408) 922-9898.

Christmas Tree Bugs

 

Being Prepared To Handle Christmas Tree Pests

San Jose, United States - December 5, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Festivities and traditions mark the holiday season. An essential part of the season is putting up a Christmas tree. In the US, real Christmas trees are still popular. It is estimated that around 33 million real Christmas trees are sold annually in the country. Freshly-cut trees look gorgeous and have a distinctive smell that helps set the mood for the season. However, real trees also have real insects in them. A single Christmas tree may have up to 25,000 bugs. 

Most pests in Christmas trees are not harmful, and many may perish in the warmth of homes or because of a lack of food. Still, it is good to know what pests may be lurking in Christmas trees so that there are no unpleasant surprises. Habitat Pest Control offers advanced pest control services in San Jose and the Bay Area year-round. With over a decade of experience in commercial and residential control in San Jose and the Bay Area, this pest control company is always committed to providing the best service possible.

Some common pests in Christmas trees 

1. Aphids: They may be found on the lower branches of evergreen, pine, spruce, and many other trees. They are not harmful but must not be squashed on furniture as they leave stains.
2. Mites: Mites may present as minuscule red and brown dots and are usually seen in Douglas fir, white pine, Fraser fir, and spruce trees. They may lead to premature needle drop and stain carpets and Christmas ornaments. 
3. Sawflies: Black and yellow flies may hatch from brown cocoons on spruce and pine trees.
4. Adelgids: They appear like a fine dusting of snow on the Christmas trees.
5. Pine needle scale: They appear like white particles on the needles and branches of trees, which hatch to release tiny red bugs. 
6. Praying mantises: Trees may harbor the egg sacs of praying mantises. In the warm home environment, the eggs hatch as the warmth is interpreted as spring season. If this happens, it can be overwhelming as they can be a large swarm. But they usually die quickly and even prey on each other!
7. Bark beetles: These brown, black, or red bugs have hard, cylindrical bodies. They may be as big as grains of rice and leave small holes and trails of sawdust on the tree's trunk. However, they do not harm wooden furniture as the wood used is too dry. 
8. Spiders: Spiders that dwell in trees are usually not dangerous to humans or pets, and they may usually die off inside homes. Dangerous spiders like Black Widow and the Brown Recluse are not tree-dwellers. But, they can inhabit homes, and some caution while getting decorations and lights from storage or attics will be beneficial.

Avoiding Christmas tree bugs

1. Inspecting the tree at the lot and removing bird nests is helpful.
2. Whether there are signs of pest infestations or not, a good shake will scare and dislodge many pests on the trees. Lots may have shakers for this. 
3. Pruning branches that have egg cases or bird nests.
4. The Christmas tree can be left in the garage for a few days before getting it to the living room. 
5. Insects around the tree can be vacuumed up.
6. Bugs on the tree can be killed by dusting with diatomaceous earth or spraying with neem oil. Avoid spraying aerosol pesticides, as these are flammable. 

It is important to remember that Christmas tree bugs are usually harmless and do not survive and infest homes. Homes are more at risk from household pests like cockroaches and termites than from these. For such pest infestations, a pest control company can offer reliable solutions. For a pest control quote in San Jose and the Bay Area, contact Habitat Pest Control Company by phone number (408) 922-9898.