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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Pest Control Scams in Greenbrae

Pest control scams can invade your home and wallet in Greenbrae. Spot the tricks early to protect your family and property. Follow these steps for safe hiring.

Licensed & insured professionals CALL NOW: 1-833-352-8788

✓ Verify contractors • ✓ Spot red flags • ✓ Avoid common schemes

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✓ Scam-Aware Tips

Common Residential & Commercial Pest Control Scams in Greenbrae

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Phantom Infestation

Scammers knock unannounced, 'spot' fake severe issues like termites or bedbugs, push expensive immediate treatments.

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Upfront Payment Disappearance

Takes deposit or full payment for treatment, then ghosts or does minimal/no work.

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Bait-and-Switch Pricing

Lowballs quote over phone, then hikes price on-site claiming 'worse problem than expected.'

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Fake or Impersonator Crews

Poses as legit company using similar names/logos, does poor job or steals info.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Request a certificate of insurance (COI) for liability and workers' comp. Contact the listed insurer to verify coverage is current and adequate.

2

Licensing

California pest control pros must be licensed by the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB). Ask for their license number (e.g., Branch 2 for general pests) and verify at pestboard.ca.gov. Confirm it's active for Marin County work.

3

References

Ask for 3+ recent references from Greenbrae or Marin County clients. Call them to ask about service quality, results, and any issues.

Protection FAQs

How do I verify a pest control license in California?

Use the SPCB site at pestboard.ca.gov. Enter the license number and check status, branches, and disciplinary history.

What if a pest control tech shows up uninvited?

Do not let them in or pay. Real pros don't cold-call or door-knock aggressively. Contact licensed services directly.

Is upfront payment ever required for pest control?

Trustworthy companies rarely ask for more than a small deposit. Pay most after service starts or completes.

What insurance should pest control have?

General liability (at least $1M), workers' comp. Get COI naming you as additional insured.

How do I check references effectively?

Ask specific questions: Were pests eliminated? On-time? Clean work? Any hidden fees? Get contact info for 3 locals.

What are common guarantees from legit pest control?

30-90 day re-treatment warranties. Avoid 'lifetime' guarantees without clear terms.

Hire with Confidence

Don't take risks with your property. We connect you with pre-screened, licensed professionals in Greenbrae.

Licensed & insured professionals CALL NOW: 1-833-352-8788