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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Pest Control Scams in San Geronimo

Pest control scams target worried homeowners and businesses in San Geronimo. They promise quick fixes but leave you with bills and no results. Spot the red flags, verify credentials, and connect with screened professionals to stay protected.

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

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Common Residential & Commercial Pest Control Scams in San Geronimo

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Fake Infestation

Scammers 'discover' pests you can't see, like termites or bed bugs, to upsell expensive treatments.

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Upfront Payment Demand

Requires full or large deposit before any work, then disappears or does shoddy job.

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Bait-and-Switch Pricing

Quotes low price over phone, but onsite claims 'extra issues' requiring much higher cost.

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Phantom Treatment

Pretends to apply pesticides but uses water or nothing, charging full price.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Request a certificate of insurance for general liability (at least $1M) and workers' compensation. Contact the insurer to confirm it's current. This protects you from damage or injury claims.

2

Licensing

In California, pest control requires a license from the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB). Verify at pestboard.ca.gov/verifylicense using the license number or company name. Look for relevant branches: 1 (fumigation), 2 (general pests), 3 (wood-destroying organisms).

3

References

Ask for 3 recent local references in Marin County. Call them to ask about service quality, results, and if they'd hire again. Trustworthy pros happily provide them.

Protection FAQs

Do pest control companies in San Geronimo need a state license?

Yes, all applicators and operators must be licensed by California's Structural Pest Control Board. Verify online to avoid unlicensed scammers.

What are signs of a pest control scam?

Door-to-door pressure, no license, upfront cash demands, and vague promises. Legit pros don't hustle like that.

How do I check a pest control license in California?

Go to the SPCB verification page at pestboard.ca.gov/verifylicense. Enter the license number – it takes seconds.

Should I pay upfront for pest services?

No – limit deposits to small amounts paid securely. Scammers love full prepayments.

What insurance is required for pest control?

General liability and workers' comp. Always request the certificate and verify coverage dates.

How to report a suspected pest control scam in Marin County?

File with the CA Structural Pest Control Board, Attorney General, and local consumer affairs. Save all documents.

Can I trust door-to-door pest control offers?

Rarely. Trustworthy professionals use websites, referrals, or ads – not cold calls at your door.

Hire with Confidence

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

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