How to Develop a Pest Franchise
Pest control companies offer pest management and termination services which eliminate the threat of snakes, rats, termites, ants and other creatures that invade our homes. Starting your own pest control company is a great way to provide a much-needed service to your community. Instead of going through the headache of trying to grow your own company and working your way from the ground up, you can always ease yourself of the pressure that comes with starting a business and buy a franchise instead. Buying a pest control franchise allows you to provide pest control services to your local community while acting as the owner of your company, which will already have an established corporation name that is recognized and trusted by the public.
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Instructions
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Research pest control companies and select a franchise you wish you to buy. Pest control is a fairly standardized industry, but not all pest control companies operate in the same manner. For instance, some companies may specialize in rodents and not offer insect control services, and some companies may only use organic pesticides. Research companies that offer pest control franchises and choose a franchise that best suits your personality and provides the services you wish to offer your community. Visit company websites like Orkin.com and Terminix.com, or browse through franchise directories like Gaebler.com and the Franchise Zone to find pest control franchise opportunities near you.
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Contact a pest control franchiser. Many pest control companies have a section on their website for people looking to buy a franchise. Fill out the necessary information, such as name, address and phone number, and submit a franchisee form to the company of your choice. You can also call the company's (800) number and submit your request for purchasing a franchise to a live operator.
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Talk with a franchise representative. Whether you fill out an electronic form or talk to a live operator on a phone, a franchise representative will be in contact with you. They will explain their company's requirements and guidelines that you must obey if you are to franchise with them. Some companies conduct interviews on the phone, while others will request that you meet with a local representative in person. They will ask for personal information, such as your Social Security number and bank account information so they can run a credit check and, in some cases, a background check. As a franchisee, you are given the right to use a previously established and trusted business name, so the pest control company acting as your franchiser will investigate your financial status and personal background to ensure that it isn't lending its trusted business name to someone who may tarnish their image. If you meet the franchiser's requirements, the franchise representative will provide you with necessary paperwork that is needed in order to purchase a franchise.
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Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). It is required by law that all companies provide their franchisees with an FDD, which covers the company's history, company policy, financial statements, franchisee contact information, franchise agreement, franchise opening and termination regulations, and legal documentation, which will inform you of what licenses are required in order to operate as a pest control technician and how to obtain them.
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Pay for the franchise rights. The franchise representative will cover all costs that must be paid. These include the franchise down payment, licensing fees and any other franchise fees, including taxes, that may apply.
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Sign the franchise agreement. Once you have reviewed the FDD and have been accepted as a franchisee, sign the franchise agreement to legally take ownership of your pest control franchise. Some franchises require that you visit the company headquarters so you can see the operation of the company and even meet with executives before you sign the franchise agreement. This will familiarize yourself with the company and vice versa. The franchise representative will inform you if a corporate visit is required at the time of your initial interview.
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Pick a location for your franchise. Most franchisers have the final say in where you locate your business, but you are still responsible for finding a location and paying the bill. Choose a location that is not surrounded by too many competing pest control businesses to give yourself the best chance of gaining customers. Too much competition can hurt your profits. Pick a building that is also easily accessible to the public.
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Obtain proper licensing for pest control services in your state. Most pest control companies help their employees and franchisees obtain their pest control licenses. This information is usually provided in your FDD. In some cases, you are personally responsible for obtaining and paying for your own pest control license. If this is the case, contact your state's Department of Agriculture and inquire about state specific pest control licensing requirements.
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Hire employees. Make sure that all employees are properly certified and authorized to work as pest control technicians. Since you are starting a franchise, it is best to hire workers with previous experience, as they will already have experience with working in pest control and will produce quality work in a timely manner.
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Open for business.
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References
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