Dec 30, 2025 | Company News
John Dellapina, Account Executive within our East Cobb Georgia office, is officially retiring after nearly 26 years with Northwest Exterminating, leaving behind a legacy built on relationships, dedication, and decades of stories.
As he steps into retirement, John says he’s most looking forward to slowing down and relaxing. He’s excited to spend more time with his wife and grandchildren, savoring moments that busy schedules once pushed to the sidelines. Still, leaving Northwest isn’t easy. After more than a quarter century, it’s been his home away from home.
“I’m going to miss the daily routine, but I’m really going to miss the people the most,” John shared. “I’m a people person; I just like being around people.”
Known for his great sense of humor, John proudly describes himself as “old school” in the best way. He prefers paperwork over computers and is often teased about his extensive archive of old files; but when systems go down or someone needs an original document, teammates know exactly where to turn.
“Thanks to John, I know now never to toss contracts. He’s been building a paper empire for 20+ years! If you ever need a contract from 2005, he’s your guy!” Jamie Williams, Sales Support Associate.
John’s deep knowledge and long history with the company have made him a walking archive of Northwest Exterminating. Even during a health scare, he never lost his trademark humor, continuing to crack jokes and lift the spirits of those around him.
One of the many meaningful connections John made during his career was with Chuck Negas, Director of Commercial Development. Recognizing John’s strong relationships, especially with real estate agents—Chuck encouraged him to transition into Commercial Sales, knowing he would thrive.
“John was well liked and clients trusted him,” Chuck shared. “He also set a good example for newer salespeople. He was always willing to help and was supportive of everyone he worked with, John never forgot that we were a team.”
John often fondly recalls the trio he formed with close friends Peter Schmidt and Tommy Hubert, along with the practical jokes, laughter, and camaraderie that defined so many of his days. John also likes to remind people that when he was hired, he walked through the door with a $3,000 termite contract under his belt, and he never looked back.
Over the years, John built lasting connections with customers and teammates alike, relationships that made his career especially meaningful
John Dellapina will be deeply missed by teammates across Northwest Exterminating. His stories, humor, reliability, and heart have left a lasting mark, and his impact will be felt long after he clocks out for the final time. Thank you, John, for sharing 25+ years with us!
Dec 30, 2025 | Company News
Barry Teubert, Service Center Manager in Hixson, GA., began his career with Northwest 28 years ago with a simple goal: to learn more about the pest control industry. What kept him here all these years, however, was something even more meaningful: the people and the culture.
Throughout his career, Barry wore many hats. As a Service Center Manager, he inspired teammates, solved customer challenges with a steady smile, and ensured exceptional service was delivered day in and day out. Leadership and teaching others came naturally to Barry, and his influence has been felt across the company for nearly three decades.
While the work was meaningful, Barry’s career was also filled with plenty of humor. One story still makes him laugh:
“Every time I hear the joke, ‘I don’t have to outrun the bear, I only have to outrun you,’ it reminds me of the time Pete Schmidt, and I had to outrun two Rottweilers that chased us to our truck. I only had to outrun Pete—and I did.”
Pete Schmidt, Vice President of Specialty Services, hired Barry back in 1997 when Pete was the Service Center Manager at the Smyrna Service Center. Pete said one of the things he’ll miss most about Barry is his contagious energy, get it done attitude, and constant competitive spirit.
“Barry was a man who stood by his word. If he said it, you could consider it done. I had to bring my A-game every day when working with Barry; he made me better. “ said Pete
Pete was not the only person who noticed Barry’s dedication and performance. Over the years, Barry earned Salesman of the Year four times, was named Teammate of the Year, and received the company’s highest honor, the L.A. Phillips Award. These achievements reflect the respect and admiration he earned from teammates along the way.
Beyond awards and accomplishments, Barry says the most rewarding part of his leadership journey has been watching teammates grow, buying their first homes, getting married, and welcoming children into their lives. Family has always been important to Barry and as he enters retirement, he’s excited to devote 100% of his time to his loved ones, embrace his hobbies, and simply enjoy life.
As Barry prepares for this next chapter, he leaves his Northwest family with one final piece of advice:
“Change is good. Learn from everyone—the good and the bad. Be open to growing and challenge yourself daily.”
Thank you, Barry, for 28 years of leadership, laughter, and lasting impact. Your legacy at Northwest Exterminating will continue through the many lives you’ve influenced.
Dec 30, 2025 | Commercial, Green Commercial Pest Control
Maintaining a pest-free environment is essential for any business. It protects your reputation, ensures compliance with health regulations, and provides a comfortable atmosphere for employees and customers. For modern businesses, the method of pest control is just as important as the result. An eco-friendly approach not only addresses pest issues effectively but also aligns with corporate responsibility and customer expectations. Choosing the right eco-friendly pest control service is a critical decision that impacts your operations, brand image, and bottom line. With a growing number of providers claiming to be “green,” it can be challenging to identify a partner that offers genuine, effective, and environmentally conscious solutions. This guide will walk you through the key considerations for selecting a commercial pest control service that meets your business’s specific needs.
Why Eco-friendly Pest Control Service Matters for Your Business
Opting for an eco-friendly pest management strategy, often called Integrated Pest Management (IPM), offers significant advantages for a commercial property. IPM is a holistic approach that prioritizes long-term prevention by understanding pest biology and behavior. It focuses on minimizing reliance on chemical applications by using exclusion, sanitation, and monitoring as the first lines of defense.
Benefits for Commercial Properties
- Enhanced Reputation: Customers and clients increasingly favor businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. An eco-friendly pest control program showcases your dedication to environmental stewardship.
- Improved Work Environment: Prioritizing low-impact solutions contributes to a healthier setting for your employees and patrons, reducing concerns associated with conventional treatments.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many industries, especially food service and healthcare, have strict regulations regarding pest control. IPM practices are often aligned with or required by these standards, helping you remain compliant.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Provider
Making an informed decision requires looking beyond marketing claims. A truly professional eco-friendly service will be transparent about its methods, experience, and qualifications.
Experience in Your Industry
Commercial pest control is not a one-size-fits-all service. A provider with experience in your specific industry will understand the unique challenges and regulatory requirements you face. Whether you manage a restaurant, a healthcare facility, a warehouse, or an office building, your provider should be able to develop a customized IPM plan tailored to your environment. Ask for case studies or references from businesses similar to yours.
Methods and Materials
Inquire about the specific methods and products the company uses. A genuine eco-friendly provider will emphasize a multi-faceted approach.
- Thorough Inspections: The process should always begin with a comprehensive inspection to identify the type of pest, the extent of the infestation, and the contributing factors.
- Focus on Prevention: The proposed plan should prioritize exclusion (sealing entry points), sanitation improvements, and habitat modification to make your property less attractive to pests.
- Targeted Applications: When product application is necessary, it should be targeted and precise. Ask what types of products are used and why. The provider should be able to explain their selection and how it fits into the overall IPM strategy.
Documentation and Reporting
Professional commercial pest management includes detailed documentation. Your provider should offer clear, consistent reporting after each service visit. This documentation should outline what was observed, what actions were taken, and what steps your business needs to take to support the prevention plan. This is crucial for tracking progress and demonstrating due diligence for health inspections.
Partnering for Long-Term Success
Choosing an eco-friendly pest control service is about finding a long-term partner dedicated to protecting your business. An effective IPM program is a collaborative effort between your staff and the pest management provider. The right partner will not only treat existing problems but will also educate your team on best practices for sanitation and maintenance to prevent future issues.
If your business is ready to implement a responsible and effective pest management program, it is time to consult with an expert. A professional commercial pest control service can conduct a thorough assessment of your property and develop a customized, eco-friendly plan that protects your facility, reputation, and peace of mind. Contact a specialist today to learn how an Integrated Pest Management program can be tailored to your business needs.
Dec 29, 2025 | Florida Pest Control
December in Broward County brings milder temperatures and a welcome break from the year-round heat. As residents enjoy the pleasant weather, house mice are also on the move, seeking refuge from the subtle chill. While Florida’s winters are not severe, this seasonal shift is enough to drive these small rodents indoors, making December a peak month for infestations in local homes.
Understanding why these pests become more active during this time is the first step toward effective prevention. For homeowners, being proactive is key to maintaining a comfortable and pest-free property. This guide outlines why house mice invade Broward homes in December, the issues they can cause, and proven strategies to keep them out.
Why December is a Prime Time for Mouse Invasions
Even in South Florida, the slight drop in temperature is a significant environmental cue for house mice. Their behavior changes as they instinctively search for stable, warm environments with reliable access to food and water—and your home provides everything they need.
The Search for Warmth
As outdoor temperatures fluctuate, mice seek consistent warmth to nest and breed. A house mouse can squeeze through an opening as small as a dime, easily gaining access to wall voids, attics, crawlspaces, and the spaces behind appliances. These secluded areas offer the perfect shelter to ride out the cooler parts of the year.
A Consistent Food Source
During winter, natural food sources like seeds and plants become less abundant outdoors. Your kitchen and pantry become an irresistible target. Unsealed food containers, crumbs on the floor, and accessible pet food bowls are an open invitation for mice to settle in. Once a food source is established, they have no incentive to leave.
The Risks Associated with House Mice
A mouse infestation is more than just a minor inconvenience. These rodents can introduce considerable problems into your home, affecting both your property and your living conditions.
Damage to Property
House mice have incisors that grow continuously, which means they must gnaw constantly to keep them filed down. This behavior can lead to significant damage.
- Electrical Wires: Mice frequently chew on electrical wiring, stripping the insulation and creating a serious fire hazard.
- Structural Elements: They can gnaw through drywall, wood, and plastic pipes, compromising your home’s structure and potentially causing leaks.
- Insulation: Mice will tear up insulation in attics and walls to create nesting material, reducing your home’s energy efficiency.
Unsanitary Living Conditions
Mice are not clean animals. They leave a trail of droppings and urine as they travel, contaminating countertops, pantry shelves, and other surfaces. They are capable of carrying and transmitting germs, which can compromise the cleanliness of your home environment. They can also bring in other pests, such as fleas and ticks.
Effective Prevention Strategies for Your Home
The most reliable way to handle a mouse problem is to prevent it from starting. Making your home less accessible and attractive to rodents is your best defense.
Seal Potential Entry Points
A thorough inspection of your home’s exterior can reveal vulnerable spots.
- Fill all cracks and holes in the foundation, walls, and roofline. Use steel wool and caulk for a rodent-proof seal.
- Install weather stripping on doors and place sweeps on garage doors to close gaps.
- Cover vents and utility openings with sturdy wire mesh.
Remove Indoor Attractants
Do not provide the resources mice need to survive and thrive.
- Store all food—including pet food and birdseed—in airtight glass or metal containers.
- Maintain a clean kitchen by wiping up spills and crumbs immediately.
- Use trash receptacles with tight-fitting lids and empty them regularly.
- Fix leaky pipes and faucets to eliminate water sources.
You should not have to share your home with pests. A professional pest control expert can perform a detailed inspection to identify entry points and the extent of the infestation. They will implement a comprehensive management plan to resolve the issue and help you secure your home against future invasions. Contact a rodent control specialist today for an inspection and enjoy peace of mind in your Broward home this December.
Dec 23, 2025 | Termite Control
As winter arrives in Homewood, Alabama, many homeowners believe that pest activity comes to a halt. While colder temperatures do slow down many insects, termites are a relentless exception. The assumption that termites go dormant during the winter can lead to a false sense of security, leaving your property vulnerable to continuous, hidden damage. Understanding that termite season never truly ends in Alabama is crucial for protecting your most significant investment. Even in December, these wood-destroying insects remain active, foraging for food and expanding their colonies. This guide explains why termites persist through the cooler months and what preventative measures for termite control you can take to defend your Homewood home.
Termite Activity in Cooler Weather
Unlike other regions with harsh winters, Homewood’s climate is mild enough to support year-round termite activity. Subterranean termites, the most prevalent species in Alabama, are particularly well-adapted to survive cooler temperatures.
Underground Colonies Provide Insulation
Subterranean termites build their colonies deep in the soil, which acts as natural insulation against surface temperature fluctuations. While the air may be chilly, the ground remains warm enough for the colony to continue its daily functions without interruption. The queen continues to lay eggs, and worker termites venture out in search of food.
Your Home Offers the Perfect Shelter
Termites are in constant search of cellulose, which is found in wood. Your home’s structure provides an ideal, climate-controlled environment with an abundant food supply. Once termites establish a path into your house, they are shielded from the outdoor elements and can continue their destructive feeding habits 24/7, regardless of the season.
The Unseen Risks of a Winter Infestation
Because termite damage occurs out of sight, infestation can progress for months or even years before being discovered. This silent destruction is what makes termites such a significant threat to homeowners.
Compromised Structural Integrity
Termites consume wood from the inside out, hollowing support beams, floor joists, and wall studs. Over time, this can weaken your home’s structure, leading to serious issues like sagging floors, warped ceilings, and compromised foundations. These repairs can be extensive and are typically not covered by standard homeowners’ insurance policies.
The Myth of Winter Inactivity
Believing that termites are inactive in December can cause homeowners to dismiss potential warning signs, such as mud tubes on the foundation or wood that sound hollow when tapped. This delay allows the colony to grow and cause more significant damage, turning a manageable issue into a major structural problem.
Effective Winter Termite Control Strategies
Proactive prevention is the most effective approach to termite management. By making your property less attractive to these pests, you can create a powerful defense for your home.
Reduce Moisture Around Your Property
Termites depend on moisture to survive. Eliminating excess water is a critical step in any termite control plan.
- Repair any leaky faucets, AC units, and pipes promptly.
- Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and direct water away from the foundation.
- Check that the soil grade around your house slopes downward to prevent water from pooling.
Eliminate Wood-to-Ground Contact
Direct contact between wood and the ground creates an easy pathway for termites to enter your home.
- Keep firewood, lumber, and other cellulose-based debris stacked on a raised platform at least 20 feet from your house.
- Maintain a gap of several inches between mulch or landscaping and your home’s foundation.
- Trim back tree limbs and shrubs so they do not touch the siding or roof.
Professional Termite Protection for Your Homewood Home
While these preventative tips are beneficial, the most reliable method for identifying and managing a termite threat is through a professional inspection. The winter months are an excellent time to schedule this service, as it allows you to address any vulnerabilities before the peak swarm season in spring.
A certified termite control specialist can perform a detailed inspection of your property, identify signs of termite activity you might miss, and recommend a customized treatment and prevention plan. For professional termite control services in Homewood, AL, contact an expert to ensure your home is protected throughout the year.
