Warmer months bring more than just sun and barbecues. In neighborhoods across the country — including here in Whatcom County — residents are reporting a growing wave of door-to-door pest control scams, where aggressive sales tactics and questionable services leave homeowners out hundreds of dollars, or worse.

Authorities and pest control professionals are urging people to be cautious when approached by unsolicited salespeople offering “limited-time” pest control deals.

A Slick Pitch, But No Service

The typical scam involves a representative claiming to be from a well-known pest control company — or a vague “local provider” — offering an inspection or discounted treatment for bugs, rodents, or even termites. These individuals often wear branded clothing, carry clipboards, and appear professional. Some even claim they were “in the area for a neighbor’s service” and noticed signs of infestation at your home.

Once inside the home, the scam can take different forms:

• Fake Inspections: The salesperson may exaggerate or fabricate signs of pest activity.
• Prepayment for No Service: Homeowners are convinced to prepay for future treatments — which never happen.
• Bogus Contracts: Unsuspecting residents may be pressured into signing confusing contracts with hidden fees or cancelation penalties.

Red Flags to Watch For

Local experts, including licensed professionals from Bio Bug Pest Control in Bellingham, recommend homeowners watch out for these warning signs:

• Unsolicited visits with high-pressure sales pitches.
• Lack of a business license or credentials. Legitimate pest control companies are required to be licensed by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA).
• Requests for cash up front or same-day contract signatures.
• No clear contact info, website, or local office.
• Claims of urgency, such as “your neighbor just had pests” or “we’re only offering this deal today.”

Whatcom County Residents Report Close Calls

Several residents have taken to community message boards like Nextdoor and Facebook to share their experiences. One Ferndale homeowner reported being pressured to pay $200 on the spot for a treatment they didn’t need. Others have had to cancel credit cards after giving payment details to doorknockers who vanished shortly after.

How to Protect Yourself

• Don’t feel obligated to open the door. You’re under no obligation to engage with salespeople.
• Ask for identification and verify credentials through the WSDA or Better Business Bureau.
• Research the company before agreeing to anything. A quick online search can reveal if others have had negative experiences.
• Get a second opinion if you’re told you have a pest issue.
• Don’t pay cash or share personal financial info with unverified vendors.

The Safer Route

If you suspect a pest problem, it’s best to contact a licensed, reputable company directly. Bio Bug Pest Control offers transparent pricing, real inspections and service guarantees without the sales pressure.

As summer continues, officials remind residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement or the Washington Attorney General’s Office.