Vague pricing
“It depends” is a fair answer for an initial call, but a company should be able to give a written estimate after an inspection that lists what’s covered and what isn’t. Quotes that are only verbal, that change between calls, or that bury fees in fine print make comparison difficult — and that’s often the point.
For more on what actually drives a quote, see pest control cost.
Pressure tactics
- “This price is only good today.”
- “If you don’t treat now, your home will be unsafe.”
- “Sign before you compare other quotes.”
Time-pressure pitches make it hard to compare pest control companies by state against each other. A reputable company will hold a quote long enough for you to think it over and get a second opinion.
Unclear contracts
Read the contract before you sign it. Look specifically for contract term length, auto-renewal language, early-cancellation fees, and what triggers an extra charge. If a representative is reluctant to email the contract before signing, that’s information.
No service details
A real estimate lists pests covered, treatment areas, products or methods at a high level, and the schedule of any follow-ups. If the only thing you can confirm is the price, you don’t actually know what you’re buying.
Unclear follow-up
For pests that almost always need follow-up — termites, rodents, bed bugs — a one-and-done quote is usually under-promising. Ask whether re-treatment is included if the problem persists, and what the trigger for that is.
Unrealistic promises
“100% guaranteed permanent elimination” is a hard claim to support for most pests. Termite treatment and bed bug work in particular usually require ongoing management, not a one-time cure. A meaningful guarantee includes specific conditions, duration, and what triggers a return visit. Marketing superlatives without those conditions are red flags, not promises.
Fake-looking reviews or unverifiable claims
- Dozens of five-star reviews posted within a few days of each other.
- “Verified” or “certified” badges that don’t link to a real verifying body.
- Awards or rankings with no source, year, or category.
- Customer testimonials with no last name, location, or context.
Pest Select doesn’t publish reviews, ratings, or verification badges of its own — partly because of how easy those signals are to manufacture.
Lack of clear contact information
A legitimate company has a working phone number, an email or web form, a physical service address (even if it’s a home office), and a state license number you can verify with your state’s licensing board. If any of those are missing, ask why before you book.
If you spot incorrect information on a Pest Select listing, you can update a listing or contact Pest Select directly.
Not explaining preparation steps
Most treatments need some preparation: clearing counters, washing bedding, moving furniture, keeping pets out for a window of time. A company that won’t put preparation instructions in writing — or treats prep questions as a hassle — is a company you don’t want in your home.
What good companies do instead
- Inspect before they quote, and quote in writing.
- List pests covered, treatment areas, and follow-up schedule.
- Hold the quote long enough for you to compare.
- Explain preparation in writing.
- Give a clear contract with cancellation terms.
- Confirm licensing on request.
For the full pre-booking checklist, see the guide on questions to ask before hiring.