Wildlife management (removal of vertebrate animals like raccoons, opossums, gophers, etc. ) Pest control for wood-destroying pests[4] X Research source Fumigation with restricted-use chemicals (a specialty within both structural and agricultural pest control)

In some states, you’ll likely need a college degree to get certified to operate an agricultural pest management business. You might also need to register your business with the Department of Agriculture if you plan to transport biological material or plants across state lines for large-scale agricultural work. [6] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Small Business Administration U. S. government agency focused on supporting small businesses Go to source Visit https://www. aphis. usda. gov/aphis/resources/permits to view regulations and permits for importing, exporting, and transporting organic material.

Pest control franchises require an initial investment between $25,000-$55,000 but provide training and name-brand recognition. Expect to charge between $250-400 for your services, though fumigation can cost significantly more (starting at $1000). [9] X Research source

Your business plan will also include funding requests and financial objectives.

Unless you plan to work in large-scale agricultural pest control across state lines, you won’t need to register on the federal level. In most states, you’ll pay less than $300 total to register your business. Even if you’re buying a franchise, consider registering a business entity to reduce your liability. Most franchisees require you to be personally liable for your business. [13] X Research source Once you’ve registered your business, get your federal and state tax ID numbers and open a bank account separate from your personal finances.

In your contract, state whether you’ll pay for additional damage to the building if pests continue to create issues after your treatment. Many businesses will offer to pay $500-$1000 worth of damages (this is called a “repair bond”). To be really competitive in the structural pest control market, you can even draw up a contract and bond that’s transferable to the next owner if your original client sells their house.

For example, California requires that you have at least $500,000 of general liability insurance to operate a pest control business. [16] X Research source Florida also requires that you have at least $500,000 of aggregated coverage. [17] X Research source You might also want professional liability insurance to protect your pest control business from financial loss due to errors, negligence, or malpractice. You can also obtain commercial property insurance to protect your equipment. Insurance costs small businesses an average of $1,200 per year. [18] X Research source

Visit http://npic. orst. edu/reg/state_agencies. html for more information on your state’s pest control board and their specific requirements.

Your state might run the certification program through the Department of Agriculture, Structural Pest Control Board, or Environmental Bureau. You may also need a high school diploma to get certified, depending on your state.

A “Certificate of Good Standing” proves that you’ve registered your business with the state, and you’ve paid all necessary fees and taxes. [22] X Research source

The EPA regulates pest control storage for 55-gallon containers via instructions on the label for the chemicals. However, your county may have additional fire prevention measures. [24] X Trustworthy Source United States Environmental Protection Agency Independent U. S. government agency responsible for promoting safe environmental practices Go to source

A company vehicle Pesticides and pest removal tools (such as sprayers or traps) Protective gear, including respirators, gloves, and goggles[26] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source

Expect to pay employees around $18 per hour. [28] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source Pest control employees usually start as technicians, performing inspections as they learn about safe pesticide use. [29] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source Your employees will need to get an applicator certification from your state to work with restricted-use chemicals. To help train your employees, check the National Pest Management Association’s Online Learning Center at: https://npmapestworld. org/resourcecenter/online-training-resources/online-learning-center/

Pick an easy-to-remember name that describes the services you offer, like “Ridgewood Rodent Removal. ” Come up with a tagline that shows your brand values and voice, like “No pest is too big or too small” or “Take the stress out of pest control. ”

Set up a company website to advertise your services online. For instance, you could reward customers with a 20% off discount on future pest control if they refer someone to your company.