Contact: Lisa Schiller, Media Relations
414- 847- 6055
414-302- 0355
lschiller@wisconsin.bbb.org
Milwaukee, Wis. – Bed Bugs are stow-a-ways by nature, according to The National Pesticide Information Center. They enter homes or apartments by hiding out in the cracks and crevices of luggage, furniture, pillows, clothing, boxes and other objects when they are moved between apartments, hotels and homes.
While bed bugs are a nuisance, they aren’t known to transmit disease, but they still create plenty of problems. Don’t be a hitchhiker for bed bugs! Effectively eliminating bed bugs typically requires multiple visits by a licensed pest control operator and diligence on the part of those who are experiencing the infestation.
Nationally, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has received 3,492 complaints on pest control companies since the first of the year and pest control ranks #23 on most inquired about business industries.
When searching for a Bed Bug Exterminator the BBB recommends these tips:
Check on a company. Check on a company before hiring at bbb.org. Find an Accredited Business by searching a category such as, “pest control services” and the city or zip code in which you live. Also, receive free, quick estimates by clicking, “Request a Quote” on a BBB Accredited Business’ report page.
Make sure they are licensed. Exterminators that use chemical methods to control bed bugs must carry a valid, current license from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture. You can check the status of a license online.
How much will the treatment cost?
Some companies charge an inspection fee, but others do not. The cost of the first treatment and follow-up treatments may vary. A single treatment may not eliminate bed bugs, and may require several treatments, with more needed if the infestation is severe. Companies should provide you with an estimate, so always get several estimates. Typically, pest control services are performed under a contract, so read it carefully and keep a copy. Be especially alert to details about treatment plans, guarantees, and time restrictions on those guarantees. Obtain 2-3 estimates from different companies, and don’t hesitate to ask for several references from past customers.
For more information or further inquiries, contact the Wisconsin BBB at www.wisconsin.bbb.org or 414-847-6000 (metro Milwaukee), 920-734-4352 (Appleton), 608-268-2221 (Madison) or 1-800-273-1002 (elsewhere in Wisconsin). Consumers also can find more information about how to protect themselves from scams by following the Wisconsin BBB on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.
ABOUT BBB:
For more than 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping consumers find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2012, consumers turned to BBB 124 million times for Business Reviews on more than 4.5 million companies and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at bbb.org. The Council of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for 113 local, independent BBBs across the United States and Canada, as well as home to its national programs on dispute resolution and industry self-regulation.
