Pennsylvania has a diverse range of commercial properties across its cities. Philadelphia has busy hubs and countless office buildings, while cities like Allentown feature large industrial parks. Seasonal patterns coupled with urban development and aging infrastructure increase pest concerns for every business. There are also local health departments that set norms for businesses.

If you are looking for commercial pest control near me, you will find many options. Companies like Presto Pest Control have flexible services, effective prices, and emergency solutions, and the good news is they have offices across major cities in the state. Before working with an exterminator, here are some key things to know. 

Pennsylvania’s Commercial Pest Threats

Being aware of common pests in commercial properties in Pennsylvania will help you prepare better. The first one on the list is rodents, including rats and mice, which are found in busy streets, older sewers, and basements. You are also likely to encounter cockroaches in restaurants and food preparation areas, given the moisture levels and abundant food sources. Food services, healthcare, and facilities close to agricultural areas are prone to another concern: flies. Ants, including pavement ants and carpenter ants, are common in many retail spaces and offices. Resorts, hotels, universities, and apartment complexes are prone to bed bug infestations. 

Comparing Commercial and Residential Pest Control

In general, commercial properties are bigger in size and have more foot traffic than residential ones. Property owners, especially businesses like restaurants, healthcare facilities, and food chains, are required to adhere to compliance norms, which are stricter than those in the residential sector. Commercial pest control also means having documentation and fixed inspection schedules. A homeowner can decide when they want to call an exterminator, but that is unlikely to be a choice for a cafe owner. 

Inclusions in Commercial Pest Control

• Inspections: Commercial exterminators offer regular inspections, which may mean visiting sites every week or month and sharing documentation that the area is free of common pests. 
• Exclusion means: Exterminators also stress adequately on exclusion strategies, which includes sealing gaps and cracks and fixing utility entry points, particularly in older buildings. Companies also offer fly control programs for certain businesses, including breweries, commercial kitchens, and hospitals.
• Heat and Fumigation Treatments: Bed bugs are hard to get rid of, especially in hotels and B&Bs, for which exterminators use heat treatments in a controlled way, rather than extreme use of pesticides. 
• Monitoring and reporting: Exterminators also offer documentation and additional things to take care of audits and compliance requirements.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): IPM is now the new stamp in pest control, which isn’t about tackling infestations alone. The approach is more proactive, where experts spend time on regular inspections, preventive methods, and ongoing monitoring. 

Because commercial businesses cannot shut down for pest control, companies usually work beyond standard hours to get work done. Many companies also fix an inspection schedule, depending on the business type and needs. 

Comparing Different Companies 

With numerous commercial exterminators around, how do you pick one? The answer depends on many factors, but at the very least, you should ensure the company is licensed and has liability insurance. It is also wise to check if the technicians are certified and have experience working for businesses. The price depends on the frequency of service, but an advanced estimate is always better. If you are comparing choices, always consider online reviews and ratings. Companies with hundreds of five-star reviews care for customers and are unlikely to do subpar work. You should also review the response time, which should be fast, especially for emergencies. 

With the right team handling pest control in Pennsylvania for your commercial property, you can be assured of protecting your premises and business reputation.