Doc Summary
Rodent and wildlife can be excluded from a structure through proper identification of entry points, plugging those entry points by means of expandable foam, mesh, hardware cloth, and other basic materials. Arrow offers the exclusion service and will charge a renewal amount to guarantee that if rodent or wildlife make their way into the structure, Arrow will take care of the problem for free. This guarantee is only valid with full structure exclusion. This is a part of a great IPM strategy.
Client Greet and Interview #
Greet client as normal and go over the treatment process with them again based upon the inspection given prior to pricing. Explain to them the contract, make sure the renewal pricing is set along with any other services they are getting, and get them to sign the contract.
Inspection #
SEE RODENT INSPECTION VIDEO
Interview owner/client about entry points and activity points and then inspect the structure.
Outside #
Inspection should be performed with a flashlight and should include low points and high points as well as backing up and verifying that vents on the tops of the structure are covered properly as well.
Inside #
Inspect the inside areas and the attic. Look for light coming through vents and eaves in the attic to unveil large cracks that need to be sealed.
Graph and Take Pictures #
You should graph and note down all major entry points that you are sealing for reference. If the account manager made a detailed graph, use this as your graph and add points to it if needed. Inform them if you find additional entry points in your treatment inspection versus the sales inspection. More work may be needed, and we may need to alter the price.
Equipment (can vary) #
- Foaming materials
- Ladder
- X-cluder mesh
- Copper mesh
- Rodexit stripping
- Door seals
- Rodent ROBAN caulk
Tools #
- Staple gun
- Hardware cloth
- Steel wool
- Hammer
- Electric drill with bits
- Tacks
- Nails
- Screws
Possible Rodent Repellant #
To treat “hard to exclude” areas.
Treatment #
Exclude all cracks #
Accordingly and safely to exclude rodents and wildlife as described.
Foam application #
When using foam, make sure foam is trimmed off flush with the structure so it looks neat and professional.
Entry points #
Some mice and rats can get in holes as large as a dime. They can also gnaw and chew through materials to gain entry.
Clean-up #
After every job, you need to clean up and verify you have all your tools.
Trapping #
If wildlife trapping, have the necessary certifications. Have follow-ups set to check the traps responsibly. Do not let an animal sit in a trap for more than 24 hours. Be ready to be on call. Release the animal in a safe area or kill and dispose of the animal if needed. Follow the local laws and guidelines.
Pricing #
Job pricing #
Price the job by the hour; usually at $100 – $125 per hour of estimated time plus estimated $50 – $100 material cost per job. Hard to reach areas and if the job is more difficult, then charge a higher hourly rate. We will not step on the roof unless approved by management and a roof waiver is signed. See Pricing Sheet.
Large traps #
To set 2 traps = $300 initial. Small traps: two can be set for $225.00 initial. PLUS add for follow-ups.
Rodent Renewal #
If we exclude the whole home, we will offer a 1-year guarantee on exclusion work that is renewable. The renewal price should normally be placed above the material cost and is dependent upon the current rodent activity in the area. More risk = higher renewal. Prices vary from $95 – $185. On the exclusion renewal visit, we will inspect the attic and exterior of the home and exclusion work from a year ago. We will touch up the area as needed. 30-minute appointment.
Paperwork #
Including graph and pictures. Make sure you have the contract and work order signed. Waivers/documentation is needed for areas that could not be effectively excluded. Make sure the renewal price is set.
Others #
Bats #
Perform a good inspection. The minimum for a bat job is $1,500. Bat cones or netting. We can also remove contaminated insulation and do a disinfectant.
Snakes #
We do not capture live snakes. Only apply snake repellant granules. See pricing guide.
Moles #
We use mole repellant. The average yard is a $350 – $700 initial service and includes a 30-day follow-up. Try to get on recurring pest control/PRIME and treat the yard for grubs and chinch bugs that moles like to feed on.
Selling and Marketing Tips #
If this person is having a rodent problem and enjoys your work, ask for referrals from the neighbors. Chances are the neighbors have a similar problem. Door-knock and call on the neighbors.
Mice usually travel 30 feet from their nest. Rats travel/forage 100 yards from their nest! Check on the neighbors and offer a free inspection.