Get a useful proposal, not just a price.

Ask for the diagnosis before the price

A useful proposal names the organism or explains what remains uncertain, describes the evidence and shows the affected area. Ask to see photographs, specimens or inspection findings. A promise to “spray everything” does not explain why that treatment fits the problem.

• Who inspected, and what could not be inspected? What evidence separates this pest from its lookalikes?
• What conditions support the problem—entry gaps, moisture, food, host plant or neighbouring units—and who will correct them?
• Which immediate actions can you take, and which proposed work depends on confirmation or further inspection?

Put the scope in writing

For termites, ask which termite group is implicated, how the proposed method fits it and what structural access is required. A treatment warranty is not automatically a warranty against all future damage.

For wildlife, check more than removal

• Ask which species is present and how the operator checks for dependent young or an occupied nest. The season and species can change exclusion timing.
• Confirm local authorizations, permitted methods and the legal destination of an animal if removal is proposed. Do not assume relocation is legal or humane.
• Specify one-way exclusion if appropriate, permanent entry repairs and protection of ventilation. Who checks the animals have left before sealing?
• Separate contamination assessment and safe cleanup from capture or exclusion. Bat accumulations and raccoon latrines are not ordinary household dust.
• Record how attractants will be removed, what happens if an animal returns, and which repairs or visits are covered.

Use a local wildlife authority for legal advice; a company’s general service page cannot establish permission for your case.

Check the person and the offer

• Verify the licence or certification required in your jurisdiction for the actual work, and ask about appropriate insurance. A familiar brand does not replace this check.
• Ask for references and read the proposed contract carefully. A claim of urgency should be explained by the evidence, not used to stop you comparing suitable proposals.
• Use at least enough written detail to compare the same work. A low initial price may exclude return visits, repairs or required preparation.
• If a diagnosis or structural claim is uncertain, seek an independent qualified inspection.