The 12 Best Business Books For Pest Control Professionals

Knowledgeable pest control professionals solve complex pest problems, deliver excellent customer service, and strengthen business reputation.

Professionals who use best-in-class field resources properly identify pests and stay up to date with current pest control methods, improving pest management effectiveness and customer satisfaction.

On the business side, books written by pest control experts help professionals improve customer service and expand business profitably.

Take a look at the following best-selling pest control management books to add to your wish list for your pest control library.

Pest Treatment Manuals

Pest treatment manuals provide information about pest behavior, identification, and analysis. They also discuss effective treatment methods and the best pest management approaches.

Experts recommend checking product details, the number of shipping business days, and the seller’s return policy before purchasing.

Truman's Scientific Guide to Pest Management Operations 7th Edition

Authors: Gary W. Bennett, PhD; John M. Owens, PhD; and Robert M. Corrigan, PhD

The 2010 edition of “Truman’s Scientific Guide to Pest Management Operations” provides a detailed analysis of pests, their characteristics, habits, habitats, and treatment methods.

Image Source: Amazon

This hardcover edition includes 80 new photos, drawings, and tables. It also includes two new chapters on bed bugs and other blood-feeding bugs, as well as principles of pest management and Green Pest Management. The book is also available in Spanish.

Key learnings from the book:

• Pest identifications and descriptions

• Recommended treatment methods

• Pest management principles and approaches

Where to get the book: English version: Amazon; Spanish version: Amazon

The Mallis Handbook of Pest Control

Author: Arnold Mallis

“The Mallis Handbook of Pest Control” is considered an industry standard and a leading reference for structural pest control professionals.

Image Source: Amazon

First published in 1945, this scientific guide informs readers of the biology, behavior, and control of structural pests.

The 10th edition, published in 2011, features more than 1,000 photographs and insect illustrations, plus comprehensive insect keys and 70 pages of photo identifications. It also provides pest control operators with information about delivering effective, environmentally conscious pest management services.

Key learnings from the book:

• Identification and biology of structural pests

• Pest control legislation, liability, and litigation information

• Details on practicing integrated pest management (IPM)

Where to get the book: Amazon

PCT Technicians Handbook

Authors: Dr. Richard Kramer and Joshua Kramer

The “PCT Technicians Handbook” provides identification and management data for 100 common pests in a compact and easy-to-carry format.

Image Source: Pest Control Technology

The fourth-edition paperback book functions as a training manual and field resource for anyone working in the pest control business. The book also covers best pest inspection, identification, monitoring, and IPM practices.

Key learnings from the book:

• Full-color identification guide and pest profiles for 100 major pests

• Pest management case studies

• Information on inspection, monitoring, identification, equipment, and safety

Where to get the book: Pest Control Technology

NPMA Field Guide to Structural Pests

Authors: Eric H. Smith and Richard C. Whitman

The “NPMA Field Guide to Structural Pests” is an 800-page reference manual with detailed information for 200 structural pests.

Image Source: National Pest Management Association

The book covers pest identification, recognition, biology, and control. The second edition, published in 2007, provides additional regional pests, high-resolution photos, and the latest pest control procedures.

Other handy features include tabs for quick reference and a ruler to measure pests. The book is available in Spanish and an app.

Key learnings from the book:

• Structural pest identification

• Pest control biology information

• Data on the latest pest control methods

Where to get the book: English version: National Pest Management Association; Spanish version: National Pest Management Association

Where to get the app: National Pest Management Association

Books on Pest Control Business Operations and Growth

Pest control operators benefit from real-life advice about starting and running a successful pest control business. These books provide operational strategies and tips for maximizing profit.

The Book On Pest Control: How to Start A Pest Control Business

Author: Nathan Barraclough

“The Book on Pest Control” helps entrepreneurs start their own pest control businesses.

Image Source: Amazon

In the first half of the book, the author explains branding, licensing, and training step-by-step. Chapters cover creating a business plan, starting a website, marketing your business, and writing customer contracts.

The book’s second half provides information on pest control methods for termites, rodents, cockroaches, spiders, and other pests. The book is also available as an ebook.

Key learnings from the book:

• Set up and start a business the right way

• Tips for marketing and achieving online visibility

• Effective pest control methods for common pests

What the readers are saying: Readers say the book's greatest feature is the in-depth details about starting your own business.

“Lots of relevant information on setting up a new business and how to deal with the most common pests. Well worth a read.” — Amazon reviewer

Where to get the book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

Fundamentals of Pest Control Sales: Strategies From A Pest Management Professional

Author: Foster Brusca

In the “Fundamentals of Pest Control Sales: Strategies from a Pest Management Professional,” the author uses his more than 30 years of experience in the pest control industry to help others sell residential and commercial pest control services.

Image Source: Amazon

The book, published in 2023, focuses on practical strategies to increase sales. It includes how to implement a daily routine, find the ideal customer, and write professional proposals. The book is available as an ebook and audiobook.

Key learnings from the book:

• Strategies to close more sales

• How to find customers, and the best ways to communicate with them

• Implement organizational methods and routines to improve sales

What the readers are saying: Readers appreciate practical advice on improving the sales process.

“The author does a great job of breaking down pest control sales in an easy format that you can actually use in everyday sales.” — Amazon reviewer.

“The book is an easy read for the newbie, and a great refresher for the salesperson in a slump.” — Amazon reviewer.

Where to get the book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

Pest Control Business: The End Money Worries Business Book

Author: Brian Mahoney

“Pest Control Business: The End Money Worries Business Book” helps business owners establish financial security to protect their businesses.

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

The book was published in 2016 and explains how to create a business plan, obtain funding, and incorporate a business. It also shares money-saving tips.

Key learnings from the book:

• Information on business loans and grants

• How to purchase materials wholesale to save money

• Free marketing and advertising methods

Where to get the book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

Bug People to Business People

Author: Lloyd Merritt Smigel

The author of “Bug People to Business People” draws on his 30 years of industry experience to create a roadmap to help mom-and-pop businesses grow.

Image Source: Amazon

Published in 2006, this book provides information on creating job descriptions, hiring the right employees, and retaining employees.

Key learnings from the book:

• How to expand small pest control businesses

• Importance of writing job descriptions

• Tips on hiring and retaining employees

What the readers are saying: Readers cite helpful information about organizing a business for growth.

“I can’t recommend this resource enough to those mom-and-pop operations looking to expand.” — Amazon reviewer.

Where to get the book: Amazon

General Business, Marketing, and Sales Books

Business books help professionals pick up effective pricing and marketing strategies to increase leads and grow business.

Making Yourself Indispensable: The Power of Personal Accountability

Author: Mark Samuel

The author inspires readers to embrace accountability for personal achievement and fulfillment in this book.

Image Source: Amazon

The book shows readers how taking responsibility for their work and personal lives is the key to becoming indispensable. 

The author says taking ownership improves performance, communication, and teamwork. The book is also available as an ebook and audiobook.

Key learnings from the book:

• Methods to implement a humanistic and positive approach to accountability

• Replace blaming and delegating with respect, trust, and teamwork

• How to develop a career and create a work-life balance

What the readers are saying: Readers appreciate how the author simplifies ways to take action and change behavior.

“ A terrific operations manual for getting and staying in the driver’s seat of life.” — Reviewer on MarkSamuel.com

Where to get the book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don't

Author: Jim Collins

Book one in a six-book series, “Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap, and Others Don't,” shows that greatness is based on conscious choice and discipline.

Image Source: Amazon

The book, based on a five-year research project comparing companies, explains concepts such as level 5 leadership and a culture of discipline. 

The book helps business owners understand how they can lead their company, even if mediocre, to achieve greatness. It is also available as an ebook and audiobook.

Key learnings from the book:

• Characteristics of successful businesses

• Ability of leadership to transform companies

• Importance of placing the right people in the right positions

What the readers are saying: Reviewers appreciate the thought-provoking data analysis.

“It should be required reading for all entrepreneurs who wish to shape the future and improve the quality of work in our lives.” — Amazon reviewer.

Where to get the book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

Customer Satisfaction Is Worthless, Customer Loyalty Is Priceless

Author: Jeffrey Gitomer

In “Customer Satisfaction Is Worthless, Customer Loyalty Is Priceless,” the author shares real-life examples of how to convert satisfied customers into loyal customers.

Image Source: Amazon

The book teaches professionals how to impress customers with a high level of service and retain a loyal customer base. It is also available as an ebook.

Key learnings from the book:

• Provides a fresh outlook into customer service

• Methods to build customer relationships

• Principles of customer retention

What the readers are saying: Readers appreciate the practical advice to improve customer loyalty.

“A recommended read for all the customer-centric businesses out there.” — Amazon reviewer

Where to get the book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

Who Moved My Cheese?

Author: Dr. Spencer Johnson

This book empowers readers to remove the fear and anxiety of managing their future, helping them to reduce stress and achieve success.

Image Source: Amazon

Readers learn how to anticipate, acknowledge, and accept change to positively impact their jobs, relationships, and lives. Also available as an ebook and audiobook.

Key learnings from the book:

• Explains the importance of adapting to change

• Assists in dealing with professional or personal changes

• Provides lessons about accepting change and attaining growth

What the readers are saying:

“A great, quick read if you are stagnant in your life and need change but too afraid to try it.” — Amazon reviewer

Where to get the book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

Learn More About How to Grow Your Pest Control Business

Growing a pest control business takes a lot of work and know-how, but the right resources help you achieve profitable growth.

FieldRoutes pest control software empowers pest control operators to simplify pest control operations, boost sales, and gain real-time performance insight. Intuitive, industry-specific tools streamline scheduling, pest inspections, and customer contract renewals.

For those seeking the latest tips and proven techniques, FieldRoutes offers additional resources, including:

• FieldRoutes blog for industry best practices

• Pest in Class podcast for insight and inspiration from industry leaders

• Templates to streamline pest control operations

Put knowledge into action to increase your bottom line and scale your business effectively.

Check out more FieldRoutes resources to boost pest control business growth.