The pest control industry… what’s it all about?
When it comes to the pest control industry, there’s lots to learn about! Starting a pest control business may be a challenging, yet very rewarding. You have the opportunity to run a profitable and meaningful business by being your community’s or states go-to exterminator.
How to open a pest control business
- Define & confirm your specific pest control services
- Identify your company goals and value proposition
- Get pest control training & proper licensing
- Build your brand
- Get pest control business insurance
- Have a specific bank account for your business
- Invest in the proper pest control equipment
- Identify your target clients
- Hire PCO’s
- Run your business to the fullest & highest potential!
1) Defining your pest control services
The first step to take when it comes to starting a successful pest control business is choosing the right services to offer for your clients Here are some common pest control problems:
- Occasional or year-round pests (ants, wasps, beetles, centipedes, silverfish)
- Seasonal pests (ladybugs, boxelder beetles, spiders)
- Invasive pests (cockroaches, bedbugs, carpenter ants)
- Wildlife (pigeons, skunks, sparrows, groundhogs, bats)
Remember, you don’t need to offer all of these services when opening up your own pest control business. However, it’s important to focus on the most in-demand niche in your area so your business will thrive.
2) Determining your value proposition
Your future clients will be looking for value and uniqueness from your business beyond just pest control services. Overall, it’s important to determine your value and what makes your business stand out from competitors in your local market.
3) Pest control licensing, training & certification
The pest control industry is highly regulated. You’ll need state and federal licenses to use pesticides and to operate your business. This is a non-negotiable step, as pest control chemicals can be highly dangerous to you, your employees, and your clients.
Therefore, it’s essential to acquire the appropriate licensing, training and certification prior to opening your own business.
4) Build your brand
Your business name forms the first impression of your pest control brand. t should represent your service offering, be easy to say and remember, and help you stand out from the competition.
Aside from this, your website, logo, colors, and typeface are all important factors to consider when building your brand. It’s highly advised to stick to all the same brand materials for continuity purposes on all platforms including your website, social media, business cards and promotional products.
Remember, you’ll be competing with a lot of other pest control companies, so put together a quick marketing plan to ensure that your business stands out. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Be active on all social media platforms
- Build your business website
- List your business on GMB (Google Business)
- Print promotional products such as flyers
- Create business cards
- Network with other business owners in your industry by joining online groups or attending in-person events
Reach out to Digital Task Force for all of your company’s digital marketing and brand material needs.
5) Pest control business insurance
As a pest control business owner, you’ll be dealing with pesticide applications, various chemicals, using heavy-duty equipment, and working in people’s homes and businesses. You’ll need Pest Control Insurance in order to keep your company, employees and assets safe.
We provide comprehensive insurance packages for businesses and individuals as well as competitive rates for employee benefits. We provide a state-of-the-art comprehensive pest control and exterminator insurance policy that will address the coverage requirements for your business that provides pest control services. Learn more about our services by clicking here.
6) Open up a business bank account
Setting up a business bank account will help keep your business income expenses separate from your personal one. Also, this will make everything easier during tax season. Also, it’s highly advised to look for an accountant who can help you manage your business finances.
7) Invest in pest control equipment
As a pest control technician, you require special equipment and chemicals to do your job. Here’s a list of just some of the supplies that you’d most likely need when starting a pest control business:
- Inspection Mirror
- LED Flashlight
- Infrared Temp0erature Sensor
- Night Vision Cameras
- Rodent Traps
- Rodent & Live Animal Traps
- Ultrasonic Pest Repellents
- Ladder
- Tool Belt
- … & much more
8) Identify your ideal clients
When you’re working with the right type of clientele, it makes it much easier to get repeat customers. That is key to having a successful pest control business!
You can identify your ideal customers based on factors like:
- Market (residential, commercial)
- Geographic location (neighborhood, town/city)
- Demographic (age, income, family status)
- Needs (type of pest problem, price, quality, speed)
9) Hire pest control employees
As time goes on, your pest control business will receive more and more jobs—and you won’t be able to complete them all by yourself. It’s time to hire some help with other individuals who have experience in the industry.
Firstly, figure out if your business needs part-time or full-time employees, and how much your business can afford to pay them.
Write a job description to share online that lists the positions, responsibilities, qualifications, etc. Then, share your job listing online to sites such as Indeed, LinkedIn, or Monster. Then, once people start applying, create a shortlist of your top candidates and ask them all the interview questions during the interview process. Lastly, make an offer to your top candidate and train them on your business.
Remember, the process of hiring an employee can take anywhere from 2-12 weeks, all depending on the job market in your region.
10) Run your business like a pro!
Once you start bringing in work for your company, you’ll need to manage each job professionally. Here is a list of some actions that can be taken to ensure your business runs a smooth operation:
- Manage all of your clients details including personal information such as their name, address, pest history, chemical use, and more.
- Track chemicals- how often do you use a specific chemical product on a property?
- Stay up to date with your online presentation and optimize your website for SEO.
- Constantly have marketing materiel to hand out such as pens or flyers to clients or when networking
- Monitor your local search presence
- Lastly, get Pest Control Insurance!
Have a Question?
Time to start your pest control business today!
Feel free to reach out to us today with any questions you may have regarding PCO insurance coverage and why your business needs this.
In addition, here is a link to view the different services that we offer. If you are in need of PCO Insurance, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to help!
