|
FAQ's
- Why should I deal with companies which are Members of AEPMA when I’m looking for pest control services?
- If a company is not a Member of AEPMA, does that mean they’re no good?
- Why isn’t Membership of AEPMA compulsory?
- If a company is not a Member of AEPMA does that mean that their operators are not licensed?
- I know what AEPMA stands for. In what way are your Members environmentally responsible?
- I saw a company advertising that it is a Member of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). Is that you guys?
- I’ve seen an advert for the Australian Pest Controllers Association (APCA). Is that you guys?
- So is AEPMA the recognised National Australian Association for the pest management industry?
- I’m not happy with the work done by a pest control company, can you recommend an independent expert to give me a report?
- What if I’ve had bad service from a company that is not a Member of AEPMA?
- I think I have a termite problem and I’ve had quotes from three companies. One says it will cost $700, another says $1,500 and the third says $5,000. I am confused!
- What should be the price for termite treatments?
- But isn’t there some sort of Standard?
- I know there are termites in my house. How do I treat them myself?
- Why should I deal with companies which are Members of AEPMA when I’m looking for pest control services?
AEPMA Members conform to a Code of Ethics, they are adequately insured for both Professional Indemnity and Public Liability and they have access to all the various technological developments through the Association. Finally, if a misunderstanding should develop between you, the consumer, and your pest management company, the Association will attempt to mediate to assist.
Return to Top
- If a company is not a Member of AEPMA, does that mean they’re no good?
Definitely not! Membership of AEPMA is not compulsory.
Return to Top
- Why isn’t Membership of AEPMA compulsory?
Companies cannot be forced to join AEPMA - but it may be like dealing with a real estate company that is not a member of RESI or a building company that is not a member of the MBA or HIA.
Return to Top
- If a company is not a Member of AEPMA does that mean that their operators are not licensed?
No! It is a legal requirement that pest management technicians are licensed by the State Government.
Return to Top
- I know what AEPMA stands for. In what way are your Members environmentally responsible?
AEPMA member companies use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques. Our Members seek to implement pest control from an understanding of the pest habits and biology. They will recommend steps to deter pest, for example blocking off access points or controlling moisture levels, etc. Where it is necessary to use chemicals, our Members use only those pesticides registered by the National Registration Authority for Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (the NRA). Also important is that our Members apply those pesticides only against the pests for which they are registered and only at the rates and strengths stipulated on the approved label. Finally they will recommend what you and they should do in the future to avoid or minimise further problems.
Return to Top
- I saw a company advertising that it is a Member of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). Is that you guys?
No. That is an American Association not the Australian one.
Return to Top
- I’ve seen an advert for the Australian Pest Controllers Association (APCA). Is that you guys?
No! That is a small separately incorporated Association that is based in Sydney.
Return to Top
- So is AEPMA the recognised National Australian Association for the pest management industry?
Yes! We have State Branches, Sub-Branches within the States and a National Office in Sydney.
Return to Top
- I’m not happy with the work done by a pest control company, can you recommend an independent expert to give me a report?
If the company is an AEPMA Member, we will discuss your problem with company management in the hope that an amicable solution can be sorted out. If they are a Member you may make a formal complaint. If the company is not a Member you’ll need to contact your State Department of Fair Trading or Consumer Affairs and tell them your problem. Make sure you tell them the company is not a Member of AEPMA as these Departments often refer complaints to us as they know we will follow through if the company is an AEPMA member.
Return to Top
- What if I’ve had bad service from a company that is not a Member of AEPMA?
Unfortunately we cannot mediate between you and a non-Member. You can contact your State Department of Fair Trading or Consumer Affairs for advice.
Return to Top
- I think I have a termite problem and I’ve had quotes from three companies. One says it will cost $700, another says $1,500 and the third says $5,000. I am confused!
It is important to “compare apples with apples”. It may be that the lowest quotation is for basic “dusting treatment” with no warranty and no barrier treatment against subsequent infestation. It may also be that the highest quotation involves the installation of the bait stations of a colony elimination system which also involves regular inspections and monitoring.
Return to Top
- What should be the price for termite treatments?
A: We cannot advise on price as every situation is different.
Return to Top
- But isn’t there some sort of Standard?
For termite management, there are Australian Standards - AS3660.1 - 2000 sets out requirements for termite management for new buildings and AS3660.2 - 2000 sets out guidelines for termite management in and around existing buildings.
Return to Top
- I know there are termites in my house. How do I treat them myself?
We recommend that you engage a professional pest manager. Anyway, the termiticides required for the job are only available to licensed pest controllers.
Return to Top
- I’m thinking of buying a house and I need someone to do a Pre-purchase Inspection (PPI) and give me a report. How do I specify what I want done?
Use the "Search for a Professional Pest Manager" function on the AEPMA homepage to find contact details for your closest pest manager. Specify that the PPI be done according to Australian Standard AS4349.3 - 1998, Inspection of Buildings, Timber Pest Inspections
Return to Top
- I just want a termite-free certificate, not a complete inspection.
We recommend that you have the inspection done according to AS4349.3 which also looks for other timber pests such as borers and wood decay or rot.
Return to Top
|
