Pest control companies and fumigators provide services to commercial and residential customers. The fumigator or exterminator determines the type of pest and the most effective method of extermination that will cause the least amount of disruption to the customer.
Exterminators eliminate or control pests by spraying or releasing chemical solutions or toxic fumes, or by placing traps, liquid or pellet poisons in the appropriate locations. Monitoring and follow up services are offered as well. The type of chemicals used and the type of properties treated determine the true exposure.
Fumigators typically seal the affected area with plastic or other type of containment material and pump a gas (the “fumigant”) into the area to free it from infestation by pests, most often cockroaches or other insects. The gas permeates through the walls and all spaces in order to eliminate all pests. Less often smoking pellets are used instead, placed strategically throughout the area and ignited.
Recommended Insurance Programs for Pest Control
Minimum recommended coverage:
- General Liability
- Professional Liability
- Property Insurance
- Commercial Auto Insurance
- Workers Compensation
Common Risks and Needs Associated with Pest Control
General Liability Insurance
GL liability arises from off-premises operations during the course of applying chemicals. Customers should be given proper instructions on controls regarding anyone or anything that could be exposed to the poisons while the application is going on, especially children, food and pets. Temporary evacuation is required during application, followed by a waiting period and re-ventilation to replace the fumigant with fresh air.
Spills, leaks, over spray and spray residue may damage property. Fumes may irritate eyes and skin, contaminate foodstuffs or other susceptible property, and result in sickness or worse if inhaled or ingested by persons or pets. In most cases, employees must be licensed and certified for the chemicals being applied.
Pest Inspection Damage Liability Insurance
Environmental impairment exposure is high as every phase of the contractor’s operations may trigger a pollution event: storage, transportation, application, cleanup and disposal (including disposal of empty containers). The toxic effect may be cumulative or immediate.
Property Insurance
Business property risks will depend on the type of chemicals stored, the amounts and flammability. They are not theft targets, nor are they susceptible to other damage. While they are all toxic, some may also be flammable. Hazards increase if the contractor fails to store the chemicals properly in approved containers, cabinets and rooms, with accurate labeling and separation.