PEST CONTROL BUSINESS LAUNCH CHECKLIST
From https://www.brix.so/start/pest-control (updated 2026-10-24)
Print it, tick it off, keep it in the truck.

DAY 1

[ ] Find your state pesticide lead agency and the business license and applicator certification it requires
[ ] Pass the applicator exams for each category you'll work in (general household, termite, lawn and ornamental, fumigation)
[ ] Get the business license before you advertise or solicit any work
[ ] Buy liability insurance at or above the state minimum, and ask whether pollution is excluded
[ ] Register the business and get a free EIN from the IRS
[ ] Set up a locked, labeled chemical storage box in the truck and keep the labels and SDS with it
[ ] Write your service agreement: initial service, recurring visits, re-treat policy and cancellation
[ ] Get a business phone line and put the license number wherever your state requires it

MONTH 3

[ ] Move every one-time customer you can onto a quarterly or monthly plan
[ ] Keep application records for every job: product, EPA registration number, amount, site and date
[ ] Schedule continuing education credits so your license renews on time
[ ] Track chemical cost per stop and adjust prices on large lots
[ ] Ask every recurring customer for a Google review after the second visit
[ ] Text back every missed call within minutes, especially in spring swarm season
[ ] Partner with realtors and inspectors for wood-destroying insect reports if your license covers them

YEAR 1

[ ] Hire your first technician only after workers' comp is in place and you know your state's supervision and licensing rules for them
[ ] Add a category (termite, mosquito, wildlife exclusion) your market pays for
[ ] Plan routes by neighborhood to raise stops per day
[ ] Review your insurance limits and pollution coverage against your contracts
[ ] Pay quarterly estimated taxes on time
[ ] Raise recurring plan prices with notice once a year

Pesticide applicator and business licenses come from your state lead agency.
Always follow the product label: the label is the law. This checklist is not
legal or tax advice.

Questions? Call or text (518) 588-1122, or book 15 minutes:
https://cal.com/ethanharris/15min