Dan Latini, better known in the community as Dan the Bug Man, recently joined Lisa Mazzuca on the Shop Jersey Shore podcast to talk about how he turned a career pivot into a successful, values-driven pest control business serving the businesses and residents of New Jersey.
If you’re a homeowner tired of battling ants, a restaurant owner in need of a reliable exterminator, or a fellow Jersey Shore resident curious about what sets Dan apart, this conversation offers an inside look into a business built on integrity, transparency, and community connection.
From Office Management to Pest Control: A Jersey Shore Career Reinvention
Dan’s journey into pest control wasn’t planned—it was born out of necessity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dan stepped back from his previous career in office management and emergency services to care for his family. When he was ready to return to work, the world had changed, and so did his direction.
Pest control was hiring. It was essential work. And while he entered the industry with no experience, Dan quickly discovered a deep interest in the science behind pest behavior—and found his true calling.
“I got bit by the science bug and fell in love with it… I’m never bored with a job. I really love what I do.” – Dan Latini
Why Dan Chose to Do It His Own Way
After gaining experience at two of the largest pest control companies in the industry, Dan saw firsthand the pitfalls of corporate pest control: upsells, fear tactics, and customers treated like numbers. That didn’t sit right with him.
Dan launched Dan Can Home Services to be different. His motto? Pride over profit. He offers honest, thorough service and free advice—even if it doesn’t result in a sale. His approach is grounded in education, transparency, and a desire to do right by his clients.
“I just like knowing that this is the service you’re going to get, this is what you can expect. If you don’t like it, you’re not locked into anything. I’m never going to fight for your business.”
Who Dan Helps: Residential and Commercial Clients Across NJ
Dan Can Home Services serves both residential and commercial clients with a wide range of pest control solutions:
- Residential clients get customized service without pressure or contracts.
- Commercial clients, particularly restaurants and food-related businesses, benefit from Dan’s unique background in restaurant management and ServeSafe food safety certification. He knows how to inspect under equipment, offer compliance guidance, and be an extra set of eyes in the kitchen.
Dan’s commercial clients include restaurants, breweries, manufacturing plants, and warehouses. He doesn’t upcharge for “non-covered” pests—he takes the time to address the full picture.
A Jersey Shore Small Business Built on Service and Community
Dan is based in the New Egypt/Wrightstown area, but he serves a wide radius that includes Ocean, Monmouth, Mercer, Burlington, and parts of Camden County. He’s heavily involved with the Greater Toms River Chamber of Commerce and is a board member for 21 Plus, a nonprofit supporting individuals with physical and developmental disabilities.
He also proudly supports the JBJ Soul Foundation, which offers pay-it-forward meals for those in need.
What’s Next for Dan Can Home Services?
Dan is working toward expansion, seeking the right technicians to grow his team so he can focus on growing the business long-term. He’s also pursuing additional licenses for specialized services, including:
- Pest control for schools
- Food processing facility treatment
- Green pest control options for eco-conscious clients
No matter how the business grows, Dan’s commitment to ethical, education-based service will stay at the heart of everything he does.
Need a Pest Pro You Can Trust?
If you’re in Ocean, Monmouth, Mercer, Burlington, or Camden County and need a reliable, honest, and science-driven pest control technician—don’t think “who can?” Dan Can!
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