One of the hardest parts of running an HOA is contracting with the various companies that will provide services for the homeowners within that HOA. This includes pest control companies. It's really nice to have pest control covered under your members' dues so that they do not all have to arrange for their own pest control services. However, setting up a contract with a pest control company to care for an entire community's needs can be a bit cumbersome at first. Here are some tips to help you better navigate this challenge.
1. Look for a pest control company that advertises HOA services.
While most pest control companies have the skills and equipment to provide service for a whole community, they do not all have the personnel to allow for this. And some do not have a lot of experience negotiating the type of long-term contract you probably want when hiring as an HOA. You'll have an easier time if you look for pest control companies that specifically advertise offering HOA contracts. This will smooth out negotiations as the pest control company will already have an idea of the type of services you're looking for, what to charge you, and how to allocate technicians to the project.
2. Get quotes and let your members vote.
Pest control is something that, unfortunately, some of your HOA members may look to with some skepticism. They may have concerns over the chemicals or the types of traps being used, for example. As such, members will feel better if they had some say in the pest control company that is hired. So get quotes from at least three companies. Make sure those quotes are detailed and list the types of sprays and equipment to be used. Gather your HOA members together, review the quotes, and let everyone vote on which company to hire.
3. Start with a three-month contract.
To further help comfort members in your decision to hire a certain pest control company, arrange for a 3-month contract at first. Plan on revisiting the contract at the three-month mark and only renewing it if you're satisfied with the service. This way, residents won't worry that they're about to suffer an ongoing rat or cockroach problem if the company doesn't come through. They'll be assured that any problems will be dealt with, at the latest, on the three-month mark.
Contact local HOA pest control services to learn more about the process.