How to hire a WCO

Many pest control and other types of service companies have added on wildlife control services. Pest control is not wildlife control. These are two very different businesses. While there are some very qualified PCOs that have invested in training and provide excellent pest and wildlife services there are many that are untrained and unqualified.

A1 Saver Wildlife and Bird Solutions is not a pest control company. We are 100% dedicated to our profession of wildlife expertise and wildlife control services. We strive for professional excellence as well as professional customer service. We attend continuing education and advanced certification courses relating to our industry across the nation on a regular basis both as attendees as well as instructors. We update our tools and techniques as our industry advances. We have signed a professional code of ethics statement and we take an active role in the industry by being involved in our national association, NWCOA.

Many PCOs and WCOs use a device called a one way tunnel. If you are shopping for a contractor to assist you with a problem with wildlife you may hear this term used. The device is a tube of screen that in theory allows an animal to exit a structure but once out it can not return. In some limited situations a one way tunnel is effective. However, we have found that this device is by no means a cure all and we caution all consumers to be wary of any company that offers only this device as their wildlife control service. An animal that exits and can not re-enter is still there. In many cases these animals simply move to another area of the same structure to make a new entry causing new damage and will continue to dwell within the same building. In many cases adult animals exit the tunnel but their infants are left behind to starve and die. This is not only inhumane and illegal it will also cause an odor and an insect infestation. If a one way tunnel is used the structure will require another service called proofing, sealing every other possible entry point to prevent re-entry. This can be an a very expensive approach to a simple problem and in most situations this is not a needed service. It is our opinion that many of these companies are in the proofing business, not wildlife control. Animal proofing and preventative exclusion services are offered by A1 Saver but only after carefully evaluation of your specific situation and understanding of each unique situation. Animal proofing the structure can prevent future problems and will be offered if needed.

The state of NJ has recently passed a law requiring all home improvement contractors as of November 9, 2004 to be registered with the NJ State Division of Consumer Affairs. This law requires that any company or individual offering any kind of repair service must be registered and must carry an active liability insurance policy of a minimum of $500,000. WCO and PCO companies and individuals that offer repairs, proofing, exclusion and prevention services are included in this law and must register. We applaud the state of NJ for enacting this consumer protection legislation.

Thank you for visiting our web site. If you are ever in need of a professional wildlife service we hope you will consider us. If you are out of our service area we would be happy to try and provide you with a referral of a professional contractor in your area. For out of state viewers, please visit the web sites linked below for lists of certified professionals.

Kirk La Pierre, Owner
Nationally Certified Wildlife Control and Wildlife Damage Professional

Require proof of liability insurance.
In NJ, if repairs, proofing, prevention etc. are offered require proof that the company or individual is registered with the NJ State Division of Consumer Affairs.
Do not accept a referral for a WCO from a pest control company that requires a "finders or referral fee" from the WCO. You may only receive the name of someone that paid the highest kickback and not the best qualified person to provide the service.
Make sure that all fees and offered services are in writing and require a signed copy of that contract.
Demand that all services including repair, prevention, exclusion services are guaranteed in writing as well as the terms of the guarantee.
Make sure there is a street address on the contract, not just a PO Box number.
Hire WCOs that can prove they have obtained state or national industry certifications for wildlife control (pest control licenses are for the application of pesticides and chemicals).
In NJ, do not hire a WCO that does not have commercial license plates on their service vehicle (starts with an X). This is a sign of an unprofessional.
Be cautious of any company that offers one way tunnels and required proofing as their ONLY means of wildlife control.