7 Important Factors When Choosing a Pest Control Company in Hong Kong
1. Confirm a Valid Licence
In Hong Kong, pest control companies must hold a Pest Control Operator licence issued by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD). Before engaging any company, ask for their licence number and verify it on the FEHD website. Unlicensed companies may use products that do not meet safety standards, posing health risks to your household.
2. Require a Written Report and Treatment Plan
A professional pest control company should provide a detailed on-site assessment report before treatment, stating the pest species found, severity and recommended treatment methods. A written report should also be provided after service. Be cautious of companies that refuse to provide any written documentation.
3. Understand the Chemicals Used
Ask the company to provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals used. Understand toxicity levels, how long to wait before re-entering treated areas, and any special precautions for children, pets or elderly household members. Reputable companies will proactively share this information.
4. Confirm the Guarantee and Follow-up Policy
Ask whether the company offers a service guarantee period (typically 30–90 days) and whether free follow-up treatments are provided if pests return within the guarantee period. Companies offering no guarantee are often less accountable for service quality.
5. Compare Transparent Quotes
Get written quotes from at least three companies. Check whether all costs are included (assessment fee, chemicals, labour, follow-up visits, etc.) to avoid hidden charges. Unusually low quotes often indicate lower-quality chemicals or a limited scope of service.
6. Check Customer Reviews and Reputation
Check genuine customer reviews on Google, Facebook or local discussion forums. Pay particular attention to the content of negative reviews and how the company responds. Locally recommended companies with strong word-of-mouth are often more reliable than heavily advertised ones.
7. Eco-Friendly and Safety Consciousness
Prefer companies that use eco-friendly, low-toxicity products or offer Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programmes. IPM prioritises non-chemical methods (such as physical exclusion) and only uses chemical treatments when necessary — better for the environment and household health.