So, you have a college degree but may need help finding a job in your chosen field. Fortunately, there are many options for folks who think outside the box and don’t mind getting dirty or dealing with creepy crawlies and things that go bump in the night.
A viable and possible solution to creating a steady flow of income with a minimal start-up is starting a pest control business. But before you plunge into this or any career, you may want to know what kind of earning potential and average salary a pest control business owner has, so let’s look. Then, you can decide if owning a pest control business is right.
Factors that can affect the Average Salary of a Pest Control Business Owner
Here are some ideas to consider when considering whether owning a pest control business will be profitable.
The amount of participation and referrals in any given field can directly affect your earnings potential and what services you offer. For example, do you provide no-harm services and relocate pests such as bats, groundhogs, and raccoons? If so, you can charge more for those areas of expertise.
Check what kind of pest control services are already in your area. Is there a market you can tap into? You may live in a developed area filled with homes that have decks or large porches elevated off the ground, and you can offer regular checks for groundhog and mole control, especially since we know how destructive groundhogs can be if they dig too close to your home or house foundation. Or you may live in an area with hotels and motels where things like the dreaded bedbug can be an issue. Pests are everywhere, so it’s easy to spin a web to catch the most flies.
Of course, where you live and how much competition there is will directly affect how much earning potential you have with a pest control business.
The Average Salary of a Pest Control Business Owner
Depending on where you live, a pest control business owner with five employees makes an average salary of $120,000. This is according to Business HUE. Each employee in a pest control business can produce nearly $160,000, and the company keeps 15% of that revenue as net profit.
When looking at expected profits, there are a few things to consider:
- Companies with established reputations and constant word-of-mouth leads get to spend less on marketing and possibly more jobs, thus, more significant profits.
- Companies located in California or Hawaii tend to earn higher wages than those based in the Midwest due to the cost of living.
- Companies with more commercial clients make more than those with more residential clients.
Becoming a Pest Control Business Owner
Now that you have an idea of the average salary of a pest control business owner and you’ve decided that you would like to invest some time and money into starting your own pest control business, now what?
Let’s briefly walk through the steps to become the owner of your very own pest control business.
Create a business plan: A business plan is a must for any new business; it sets plans goals and outlines details of the company, such as how many customers you hope to have, what kinds of clients you’ll serve, what services you’ll provide, and more.
Use your skill set: Write down all your skills regarding your pest control business, including what pests you will take care of and what you won’t. That way, when deciding what services you’ll offer, you can play up on your strengths and what is unique about your services.
Scope of services: Deciding what kinds of pest control services you’ll offer will also affect what types of clients you can cater to. For example, will you provide residential clients with a no-kill pest removal via trapping and relocating for animals like raccoons, groundhogs, and more? Or will you offer termite control and cleanup? The possibilities are endless, and it could be helpful to research ahead of time and see what’s already being offered in your area.
Be insured and legal: Make sure you have business owner’s insurance, business licenses, and any permits you may need to gather before you start a business; requirements may vary from county to county and state by state. Also, read up on chemicals used and see what is legal in your area and safest for all parties involved.
Calculate start-up costs and supplies: Write down a list of what kind of supplies and equipment you may need in addition to insurance costs, permit fees, and advertising/marketing expenses. You’ll invest in different chemicals, sprayers, traps, and possibly a company work vehicle.
Market your business: You must advertise and get the word out about your new pest control business. Use all free resources like Google, social media apps like Instagram and Facebook, and other sites like Thumbtack.Â
Invest in the right software: Finding the right software for your new business is crucial and can save time, money, and a lot of headaches. Programs like ServiceWorks can multitask with unique features like online scheduling, invoicing, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, route optimization, customer satisfaction surveys, storage of client info, keeping track of when servicing is due, and more. Best of all, there is a 14-day risk-free trial. No risk? And a program that does almost everything except getting rid of spiders? You should probably jump on this before that camel cricket does!
