How to Avoid Pest Control Business Claims and Lawsuits

Businesses offering services for enough time will face lawsuits or liability claims.  That’s just the nature of business.  Our carriers research and experience in past lawsuits and claims has given us a list of easy items on how an exterminator can operate to avoid liability claim or court filings.

1. Learn your state regs and rules which apply to pest control industry.

Be sure your staff knows the same rules.  Making sure your business complies with all state rules and regulations will help avoid claims.

2. Go the extra mile beyond what’s required for your license.

Industry learning events and classes. Learn and read about chemical and product reps. Participate in trade associations.  Subscribe and study industry publications. Education and training should be an ongoing method of doing business, not something you achieve and stop.

3. Strictly comply with label directions.

If you don’t use chemicals how the manufacture directs on label, a claim is much more likely – and your insurance might not cover losses.  Applying products in accordance with directions found on manufacturer label greatly reduces chances of a liability claim – it’s the best defense.  Many pest control insurance policies exclude claims when manufacture guidelines have not been followed.

4. Document, document, document.

Pest control applicators who perform wood destroying insect inspections (WDI inspections) should thoroughly and accurately document everything. Pay special attention to note and take pictures of areas you can’t reach.  Be as detailed as possible in documenting potential problem areas, and areas not inspected. Do not use vague terminology, industry slang, or abbreviations.  Be sure homeowner understands report.

5. Customer communication.

Open, frequent, thorough communication with customers helps avoid misunderstandings that could become larger issues.  Let customers know what you are doing. Offer information and SDS sheets on products applied. Consider having customer sign acknowledgement they have received information. Check if customers have children or animals.  Great customer relationships might be difference between whether there is claim reported.

6. Properly do your job.

Many claims arise directly from not doing your job correctly.  Simply following above guidelines, state law, manufacture guidelines, can help you avoid a law suit or claim.