How to Bid on Commercial Pest Control Contracts  

Dealing with pests can be annoying and harmful. That’s why pest control services exist. They help us create safe and healthy environments. 

The pest control industry is competitive and ever-growing. In the past five years, the money earned by pest control companies has been going up by about 7% each year. The total revenue for the industry has reached $26.2 billion. In 2023, the profit margin is expected to be 13.1%. 

In this article, we’ll learn about residential and commercial pest control services, including differences in the types of services needed. We’ll see how they help people and the unique challenges they face. 

We’ll also explore the important things to think about when deciding which contracts to pursue. 

And if you’re a pest control business owner, we’ll share tips on how to win commercial pest control contracts through the bidding process. Finally, we’ll kick-start your journey into commercial pest control with three actionable steps. Let’s get started. 

Commercial Pest Control Contracts vs. Residential Pest Control Contracts 

You may be wondering what the differences between residential and commercial contracts look like. That’s a valid question, especially if you’re considering adding to your current service offerings. Let’s compare the two services and what their contracts should entail. 

Residential Pest Control Services 

Residential pest control services are all about keeping bugs and pests away from people’s homes. When you live in a house or an apartment, there can be unwanted visitors. These pests can be annoying, spread germs, or even damage things in the house. 

Residential pest control services are there to help homeowners deal with these pest problems.  

They send experts who know how to find where the pests are coming from and how to get rid of them. They use different methods, such as spraying special chemicals or setting up traps to catch the pests. 

Sometimes they need to come back a few times to make sure the pests are completely gone. 

The goal of residential pest control is to create a safe and comfortable living environment. It helps homeowners to have peace of mind. They can live without worrying about bugs or critters inside their houses. 

Commercial Pest Control Services 

Commercial pest control services focus on large and small businesses and places where lots of people work or visit. Just like homes, these places can also have unwanted pests. 

Commercial pest control services help businesses get rid of these pests. It keeps their premises clean and safe.  

They have experts who know how to find where the pests are hiding and figure out the best way to remove them. They might use special sprays or traps to catch the pests and make sure they don’t come back. 

Unlike residential pest control, commercial pest control focuses on larger areas. They often deal with more complex situations. 

Businesses usually need ongoing pest control services to prevent pests from causing problems. This makes sure their customers and employees feel comfortable and safe. 

Commercial pest control services play an important role in keeping businesses running smoothly.  

They help create a clean and pest-free environment. This allows businesses to focus on what they do best. 

Pest Control Contracts 

Learning how to bid on commercial pest control contracts is crucial for pest control business owners. Commercial and residential pest control contracts have some key differences.  

Here are the main things to consider. 

Types of Services Needed 

Commercial properties include offices, warehouses, and restaurants. They are larger and busier, so they need more pest control services. 

They are more vulnerable to pests because they have more people and bigger spaces. Regular inspections, treatments, and monitoring are necessary to keep pests under control. 

Residential properties are smaller and have fewer people. They need routine pest control for common household pests. This includes ants, spiders, and rodents. The work in residential contracts is less demanding than in commercial contracts. 

Return on Investment (ROI) 

In most cases, commercial pest control contracts bring in more money compared to residential contracts. Commercial properties need more services, so the revenue is usually higher.  

Some pest control companies find bidding on commercial contracts attractive. This is because of the higher return on investment. 

Residential contracts provide stability and consistent clients. Homeowners often stick with the same pest control company. This leads to repeat business and referrals. 

Winning the Business 

Securing a commercial pest control contract is more challenging because of competition among local agencies. 

Companies need to prove their expertise to procurement professionals. They are the key decision-makers who oversee the procurement process for pest control services. They are responsible for:  

• Issuing requests for proposals (RFPs) or requests for quotes (RFQs) 
• Evaluating bids from many agencies 
• Selecting the most suitable vendor to fulfill the organization’s pest control needs 
• Assessing current contracts 

Pest control providers must show reliability and the ability to handle large-scale pest control. They must highlight their knowledge. They might share certifications or their successful track record in commercial pest control. 

Residential contracts are easier to win. Homeowners care about price, reputation, and customer reviews. Trust and a good reputation in the local community are crucial. These features lead to success in the residential market. 

RELATED ARTICLE: The 6 Stages of Consumer Buying in Pest Control 

Pros and Cons: Commercial Pest Control Contracts 

Pros: 

• More profit. Commercial contracts can bring in more money. Why? Because the scope of work is larger, so is the need for comprehensive pest control services. 
• Potential for long-term contracts. Commercial clients often need ongoing pest control services. This leads to stable, long-term contracts. 
• Larger service areas. Working in commercial properties often means servicing larger areas. This can be helpful for companies looking to expand their reach. 

Cons: 

• More competitive bidding process. Securing commercial contracts can be more challenging. Competition among pest control companies can be tough. 

• Greater operational challenges. Commercial properties can present unique challenges. This includes complex infrastructures and higher pest control demands. Companies need the necessary resources and expertise to address them, especially when navigating the public procurement system. 

Pros and Cons: Residential Pest Control Contracts 

Pros: 

• Stable client base. Residential contracts provide a steady stream of clients. Homeowners also need ongoing pest control services. 
• Potential for referrals and repeat business. Happy residential clients may refer the pest control company to friends and family. This leads to more business opportunities. 

• Less competitive bidding process. Residential contracts generally involve less competition. Homeowners focus on factors like reputation, customer reviews, and affordability. 

Cons: 

• Lower profit margins. Residential contracts may not offer the same level of financial return. The scope of work is smaller. 
• Smaller service areas. Residential contracts involve servicing smaller areas. This may limit the growth potential of pest control companies. 

Factors to Consider to Win Commercial Pest Control Contracts 

When bidding on commercial pest control contracts, consider the following factors. 

Expertise and Experience 

Show that your company knows how to do commercial pest control. Talk about similar projects you’ve done. Mention any certificates or licenses your technicians have. 

Capacity and Resources 

Make sure your business has what it takes to handle big commercial pest control jobs. This means having a well-trained team and good equipment. 

Check that you have enough storage for chemicals and supplies. Show that you can handle emergencies and respond quickly to clients. 

Tailored Solutions 

Create pest control plans that fit each commercial client’s needs. 

Understand the challenges different industries face and offer solutions that work for them. This shows you’re committed to giving great service. 

Compliance with Regulations 

Learn the rules about commercial pest control in your area. Follow the laws. In most states, this includes safe ways to handle and get rid of pesticides. 

Following the rules makes clients trust you and shows your professionalism. 

Scalability and Flexibility 

Commercial pest control contracts may need you to handle bigger properties. You may need to undertake more complicated pest control needs. 

Show that your company can handle the demands of commercial clients. Adjust your services and messaging as needed. 

Highlight your ability to work in different schedules and adapt to different places. 

Industry-Specific Expertise 

Different industries have different pest control challenges. 

To win commercial and government contracts, show that you know how to deal with the specific needs of different types of businesses. 

Understand the pests that are common in different industries. This includes hotels, restaurants, hospitals, and warehouses. Offer solutions that fit their needs. 

Talk about any special training, experience, or successful jobs you’ve done in those industries. This helps build trust and credibility. 

Timeliness and Responsiveness 

Commercial clients want fast and reliable service. Let them know that you value being on time and responding quickly. 

Show that you can: 

• Deal with pest problems promptly 
• Offer emergency services when necessary 
• Finish inspections, treatments, and follow-ups quickly and to a high standard 

Good communication and a smooth service process can help you stand out from the competition. (Learn how Bidding software can help with this)

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Programs 

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a way to control pests. It focuses on preventing them and being responsible for the environment. 

Offer comprehensive programs headed by an IPM coordinator. Ensure they fit commercial clients’ needs. This can include: 

• Regular checking 
• Detailed reports 
• Measures to prevent pests 
• Training for employees to recognize pests 

• Working with clients to make pest control plans that match their sustainability goals 

Show that you care about IPM. Share your commitment to helping clients achieve a pest-free place while protecting the environment. 

What Should Be Included in a Commercial Bid? 

Submitting a bid for a commercial pest control contract? Include the following items. 

Introduction and Executive Summary 

Start by introducing your company and saying why you’re great for the job. Give a short summary of your proposal, highlighting the important points. 

Contact Information and Business Overview 

Provide your company’s contact information, such as your phone number and email address. This way, the client can easily reach out to you if they have any questions or need more information. 

Give a brief explanation of what your business does and how long you’ve been doing it. You can mention any special things that make your company unique or stand out from others. 

Insurance and Licensing 

Let the client know that your business is insured and licensed for pest control services. 

This means you meet all the legal requirements, which is important for their peace of mind. 

Scope of Work 

Clearly explain what pest control services you’ll provide. Talk about how often you’ll visit, inspect, treat, and follow up. 

Say which areas you’ll cover, like inside, outside, the landscaping, and common areas. 

Pricing and Payment Terms 

Show how much it will cost. Include details about setup fees, ongoing costs, and any extra charges. 

Offer flexible payment options like monthly or quarterly invoices. Tell the client if there are any discounts or special deals. 

RELATED ARTICLE: How to Improve Your Pest Control Invoice Process 

Qualifications and Certifications 

Talk about why your company is qualified for the job. Mention any special certificates or licenses you have. 

Share information about the training your technicians received. Note any memberships or affiliations that show you’re serious about quality and professionalism. 

References and Case Studies 

Share feedback from happy commercial clients. 

Include stories about successful pest control work you’ve done for similar businesses. These stories and testimonials prove that you can get good results. 

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations 

Explain how you care about the environment. Talk about using eco-friendly pest control methods, like IPM. 

Share any special products or techniques you use to manage pests while being gentle on the environment. 

What Can You Upsell in a Commercial Contract? 

To make more money and give commercial clients added value, you can offer extra services.  

Here are some ideas to get you thinking: 

• Special pest treatments. Provide treatments for specific pests that need extra attention. This might include termites, bedbugs, or mosquitoes. Talk about how these treatments can prevent pests in the long term. 
• Wildlife management. Expand your services to include removing wildlife from commercial properties. Do this in a humane way. Animals like birds, raccoons, or squirrels can cause damage and health problems. So, this service is appealing to many businesses. 
• Pest exclusion services. Help clients protect their properties by offering pest exclusion services. This can include sealing cracks, putting up barriers to keep pests out, or installing door sweeps. By presenting these services as proactive measures, clients can prevent future pest problems. 
• Better monitoring and reporting. Offer advanced pest monitoring systems with things like digital sensors and remote devices. These technologies give real-time information about pest activity. This helps with early detection and more effective pest control. 

• Eco-friendly pest control. Talk about eco-friendly ways to control pests for clients who care about the environment. This can involve using plant-based pesticides, traps that use pheromones, or methods that use natural predators. Explain how these methods manage pests well while being gentle on the environment. 

You can bring in more money and give commercial clients even better pest control options. Always listen to what the clients want and offer solutions that meet their needs. 

RELATED ARTICLE: Why Pest Control Businesses Should Automate Customer Communication 

Three Steps to Take Action 

Understanding the ins and outs of how to bid commercial pest control contracts can give your business a competitive edge. It can open doors to long-term partnerships with commercial clients. 

Now, it’s your turn.  

Here are three ways you can take action and ready your business for success in the commercial pest control arena: 

1. Think about the good and bad sides. Decide if commercial pest control is the right choice for your business. 

2. Make a plan to fix any areas where you need to improve your services. For example, you might need to give your employees extra training or get special equipment. 

3. Look at your bidding process. Does it have all the things we talked about earlier? Can you make it even better to attract commercial clients?