Strong pest management programs are built on partnerships between the client and pest control provider. An important aspect of these relationships is effective communication. Each team brings unique expertise, as clients know their facilities and their processes best, while pest management providers (PMPs) are experts in pest biology, behavior and prevention. To make the most of this partnership, here are five topics that should be discussed in conversations between pest management providers and their clients.

1. Pest sightings or pest evidence.

Pest management providers are not physically at the site every day, so they must rely on the location’s team to be the eyes and ears in the field. Encourage employees to report any issues to management so that information can be relayed to the pest management technician. Additionally, it is important for employees to report any pest sightings or pest evidence to management. Evidence of pest activity can include droppings, damaged products, nesting materials and rub marks.

2. Changes to the location.

It is crucial to share any location changes with the pest management provider. This could include anything from upcoming construction projects and facility changes to a new display that features food products or an employee breakroom that is now in a new spot. Changes in the environment can impact pest activity and can add new conditions that could attract pests, so it is important that the PMP is aware of these updates.

3. Team updates.

Inform your PMP of any changes to the site’s team or management. It is important for the PMP to be knowledgeable on who to contact with concerns and who to discuss the service with.

4. Damaged or missing devices.

Be sure to report any missing or damaged pest control devices to the pest control provider so they can replace them as soon as possible.

5. Questions or concerns.

Ask the PMP if you have any questions about the pest management program at your site. Wondering why certain action was taken? Unsure of what steps you are responsible for in resolving conditions? Feel like something isn’t quite working? Communicate those questions and concerns with the PMP so all teams are on the same page.

In addition to discussing these topics with the PMP, remember that communication is a two-way street. The pest control provider should also be communicating with the client contact by discussing what they did for each service, sharing any concerns they have and highlighting any issues that could be conducive to pest activity.

If you have questions about commercial pest control or would like to learn more about how Copesan can help you in your prevention efforts, reach out to us!