Pest Control Fraud

 

Pest Control Scams: From Bed Bug Treatment to Exterminator Tricks

It is that time of the year. If calling in the experts is already necessary to resolve the fly infestation, be wary of scams related to pest control. What are they? There are a few types of fraud in this niche. Let's take a look.

Watch the video below to see a great report on bed bug treatment fraud:

Pest Control Scam Video

But let's go deep down into the types of exterminator scams, whether is about bed bug or termite treatment.

 

Exterminator Near Me? The Closeness May Not Be The Best Solution

Don't settle for the closest exterminator, just take a look at do's and don'ts of pest control first, whether you are in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia or Canada. Read all the online reviews you could (for the exterminator you consider hiring), because there are a couple of variants of the pest control-related scam.

In the first scenario, companies claim to employ only licensed exterminators for your property's treatment. What actually happens is one technician who visits you for inspection is a licensed exterminator, while other non-licensed employees will come to implement the treatment. Hence, always ask for a technician's license before allowing them to apply pesticides all over your home.

Other companies may also offer renewable contracts, but they mislead you to agree by stating a negative evaluation after the extermination. Part of their assessment might indicate that quarterly pest control is mandatory to eradicate the flies, hence luring you to agree to a renewable contract.

fly problem in house

 

The third case of deceptive practices in this business is the space heater use. How does that work? Bed bugs, eggs and larvae are destroyed when exposed to heat over 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, instead of using the proper heating methods, a questionable pest control service may use space heaters instead. In this case, bed bugs migrate toward cooler areas of your home, like crawlspaces and basements, so don't be surprised if you'll find them once again once the exterminator leaves.

Last but not least, be aware of unsolicited free inspections. After accepting them to do these visits, unscrupulous technicians create fake dangerous scenarios, precisely like in the Heating and Air Conditioning Service Scam. They may say that you need bed bug or termite control services.

There have been reported cases when 'inspectors' even brought a few dead insects or rodents to convince clients of non-existent problems. It is estimated that the United States spends $2 billion preventing termite infestations, while many of these cases have been made up. Don't be afraid to ask for a second opinion if you are told that you have a significant problem. 

Overall, the saying "Prevention is better than cure" still holds in this case. Keep your surroundings clean to avoid creating a breeding ground for the flies. Although they may thrive during the summer, if they do not have a suitable environment to multiply, then they will undoubtedly bug off (pun intended).

 

How to Control Fly Problems in Summer

Summer season is synonymous to outdoor parties and barbeques, as well as pool dips and white sand beaches.  Summer also means the season for juicy watermelons and several other fruits. Unfortunately, summer also means fruit flies and fly infestation. The tips below will surely help in controlling these problem flies.

 

Get Help from Mother Nature

Even before the summer season begins, plant herbs that flies hate such as basil, rosemary, and lavender. These can even be part of the kitchen pantry. These plants repel not only flies but even mosquitoes. Additionally, do-it-yourself insect sprays can also be made from herbs and plants found in your garden.

There are also certain oils and candles with a scent that does not appeal to the flies such as citrus fruits so it may be a good idea to light one up. Surround ornamental plants with orange peels to make sure that the flies stay away.

exterminator scams

 

Keep Everything Dry and Clean

Moist surfaces are usually the breeding grounds of flies, so it is best to check for leaking pipes or dripping faucets. Even rotting fruits and leftover drinks encourage the multiplication of flies. In line with this, it's time to clean up the backyard because the flies tend to reproduce quickly in areas where there are dying plants or compost piles.

Cleaning up is a great way to ensuring that flies will not be able to find a breeding ground.

 

Get Help from the Experts

If all else fails, perhaps it is about time to call in the experts. They are the ones who can quickly locate the breeding grounds of the flies and implement proper treatment and control measures for fly control. Some use organic-based chemicals, while others use traditional pesticides.

Before becoming exterminators, technicians need to get a license to be an expert in pest control. So rest assured, they are equipped with the knowledge and techniques that are guaranteed to shoo away those flies.

 

Pest Control Scams: How To Report

Warn your family and friends about the pest control scams by sharing this article on social media using the buttons provided. You can also officially report the scammers to the Federal Trade Commission using the link below:

Report To The FTC Here

bed bug treatment

 

How To Prevent Identity Theft and More

If you want to be the first to find out the most notorious scams every week, feel free to subscribe to the Scam Detector newsletter here. You'll receive periodic emails – we promise not to spam. Meanwhile, educate yourself with some other fraud-related articles right under this paragraph, so you can protect yourself in many other aspects and niches. Last but not least, use the Comments section below to expose other scammers.

Here are some must-reads for the end:

Credit Card Fraud

Final Expense Life Insurance Scam

How to Prevent Identity Theft

It Works: Skinny Coffee Scam

Post Office: Change of Address Scam

Bad Credit: Auto Loans Fraud

Government Surplus Auctions Scam


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selma hrynchuk
Selma HrynchukSelma is a fraud prevention specialist renowned for her expertise in private eye investigations and a remarkable partnership with law enforcement agencies. Beyond her investigative triumphs, her public speaking engagements and written works have empowered countless individuals to protect themselves and stay ahead of deceptive schemes. Selma's legacy shines as a tenacious agent of change, unyielding in her commitment to battling fraud and ensuring a safer world for all.

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