Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper is warning residents to use caution when hiring pest control services following an increase in complaints involving unlicensed operators going door to door.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture is encouraging consumers to ask pest control representatives to provide a valid state-issued license before signing a contract or allowing any work to begin. Pest control representatives are required to carry their license and show it when requested.
According to the department, 48 investigations involving suspected unlicensed pest control operators have been conducted so far this year.
Officials are also reminding Georgians that state law provides consumers with a three-day right to cancel certain contracts resulting from door-to-door sales. Information about the cancellation policy must be clearly included in the contract.
The department says using an unlicensed pest control operator can create safety concerns because the individual may not have the training necessary to properly handle and apply pesticides.
Those found violating Georgia’s pest control laws can face civil penalties of up to $10,000.
Residents who believe an unlicensed pest control operator is working in their community can report the activity to the Georgia Department of Agriculture.