Pest Control Expert Warns of Cowboy Exterminators

A pest control expert has warned of cowboy exterminators "ripping people off" in the county.

Andy Beddoes, from AB Complete Limited in Tirley, said he has found numerous homeowners have been charged over the odds in their haste to get rid of vermin.

Andy, who has been in pest control for eight years, said: "It has happened in the past but we are now seeing it so often. When there is a pest species raiding your home you will go through hell and high water to get rid of it. But people are being ripped off left, right and centre because their heart strings are being tugged at. There are lots of wasp nests around and they worry about wasp stings so will pay to get rid of them."

Andy said that he has had lots of customers complaining about these pest control companies. Andy said he had come across one victim who was charged £440 for the job of getting rid of moths from his carpet which should have cost £90.

He added: "One pensioner in Bishop's Cleeve called a firm who said they would get someone to her for £45. That was £45 to get him there and then she had to pay another £300 for the work when he got there. He told her he would have to take the roof up which would costs thousands, or he could use insecticide dust for £300. She chose that but you would use the dust anyway."

"If you have got a wasps nest in your children's bedroom or a rat in the kitchen then you will obviously do what is quickest. But they are ripping people off."

Consumers

Martin Bruton, consumer advice and community development manager for Gloucestershire Trading Standards, said: "The examples referred to highlight the difficulties consumers face when looking for someone to carry out a service. We generally recommend that you ask for recommendations from friends and also to get prices from a couple of businesses if possible, before making a decision."

Homeowners can also visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk or call 08454 040506.

Article provided by ABComplete