Pest Control Cost Calculator: Get Your Estimated Price

Last updated: March 29, 2026

By Pest Control Pricing Team

Use the pest control cost calculator below to get an estimated price range for your specific situation. Select your pest type, home size, infestation severity, and region to see an instant estimate. No personal information required. For detailed pricing on a specific pest, see our pest control cost guide.

How Pest Control Pricing Works

Pest control companies price their services based on a combination of factors, not a simple flat rate. Understanding how pricing works helps you evaluate quotes and avoid overpaying. Most companies set a base price determined by the pest type, then adjust based on your home's characteristics and the scope of work required.

For general household pests like ants, spiders, and cockroaches, a one-time treatment typically costs $150 to $300. For a detailed breakdown of what exterminators charge, see our dedicated guide. Specialized treatments for termites, bed bugs, and wildlife run significantly higher because they require more product, specialized equipment, and often multiple visits. Termite treatments average $550 to $1,500, while bed bug heat treatments can reach $1,200 to $4,000 depending on the home. See our full pest control cost guide for detailed breakdowns by pest type.

Geography plays a meaningful role in pricing. Northeast and West Coast markets typically run 15 to 20% above the national average due to higher labor costs and cost of living. Midwest markets tend to be 5 to 10% below average. Even within the same metro area, prices vary between companies, so getting multiple quotes is always worthwhile.

Factors That Affect Your Cost

The calculator above accounts for the four primary cost factors, but several additional variables influence what you will actually pay:

• Pest species. Within each category, costs vary. Carpenter ants cost more than sugar ants. Roof rats cost more than house mice. German cockroach infestations require more intensive treatment than occasional American cockroach sightings.
• Home construction and layout. Crawl spaces, attics, multi-story homes, and older construction with more entry points all increase treatment complexity and cost.
• Accessibility. Homes with dense landscaping against the foundation, finished basements with limited access, or clutter in treatment areas may require additional labor.
• Treatment method. Chemical spray treatments are generally less expensive than heat treatments, fumigation, or exclusion work. The right method depends on the pest and situation, not just cost.
• Follow-up visits. Some pests (bed bugs, fleas, German cockroaches) almost always require follow-up treatments. Ask whether follow-ups are included in the quoted price or billed separately.
• Guarantee and warranty. Companies that offer a satisfaction guarantee or re-treatment warranty may charge slightly more upfront, but provide better value if the problem returns.

One-Time Treatment vs. Ongoing Plans

One-time treatments address an immediate pest problem and cost more per visit, typically $150 to $500+ depending on the pest. They make sense for isolated issues, specific pests like wasps or wildlife, or situations where you want to treat once and see if the problem resolves.

Ongoing pest control plans reduce the per-visit cost and provide continuous protection. Monthly plans run $40 to $70 per visit after an initial treatment of $150 to $300. Quarterly plans cost $100 to $300 per visit. If your area has year-round pest pressure or you deal with recurring issues, a plan is usually more cost-effective than calling for one-time treatments multiple times per year.

Most plans include a service guarantee: if pests return between visits, the company re-treats at no extra charge. This alone often justifies the plan cost compared to paying full price for each callback. For more on whether professional pest control makes financial sense, see is pest control worth it?.

Annual Cost Comparison by Plan Type

Running the annual math helps clarify which plan makes financial sense. A homeowner who calls for three separate one-time treatments at $200 each spends $600 per year with no service guarantee between visits. A quarterly plan at $150 per visit totals $600 per year (four visits), but includes callback coverage between scheduled visits. A monthly plan at $50 per visit totals $600 per year (twelve visits) plus the initial treatment of $150 to $300, bringing the first-year total to $750 to $900. However, renewal years drop to $600 since the initial treatment is not repeated.

The breakeven point is typically two to three one-time treatments per year. If you need professional pest control more than twice annually, a quarterly plan almost always costs less and provides better coverage. Monthly plans only make sense for properties with heavy, ongoing pest pressure or for homeowners who want maximum prevention. For most homes in moderate pest-pressure areas, quarterly service strikes the right balance between cost and protection. For help determining the right schedule, see how often you should spray for pest control.

Contract Terms and Cancellation Policies

Before signing any pest control agreement, understand the contract structure. Some companies offer month-to-month plans with no commitment, while others require an annual contract. Annual contracts sometimes come with a 10 to 15% discount compared to month-to-month pricing, but they also lock you in for the full term.

Ask specifically about cancellation policies. Many annual contracts include an early termination fee ranging from $100 to $200, or they require you to pay back the discount you received on the initial treatment. Some companies prorate the remaining contract, while others charge a flat cancellation fee regardless of how many months remain. A few companies, particularly larger national brands, use an auto-renewal clause that automatically extends your contract unless you cancel in writing within a specific window (often 30 days before renewal).

The safest approach is to start with a company that offers month-to-month service or at most a one-year agreement with a clear cancellation policy. Avoid contracts longer than one year. If a company requires a two or three-year commitment upfront, that is a red flag. Reputable providers earn repeat business through results, not contract lock-in. Ask for the cancellation policy in writing before you sign, and confirm whether the initial treatment cost changes if you cancel early. For a deeper look at plan options, visit our pest control plans guide.

When to Get a Professional Quote

A calculator provides a useful starting point, but some situations call for a professional inspection and quote:

• You are not sure what pest you have. Misidentifying the pest leads to the wrong treatment. A professional inspection identifies the species and recommends the right approach.
• You see signs of structural damage. Termite damage, carpenter ant damage, or rodent damage to wiring requires professional assessment to determine the scope before treatment pricing is meaningful.
• The infestation has been going on for a while. Established infestations are harder to price sight-unseen because severity varies widely. A technician needs to inspect to give an accurate quote.
• You are buying or selling a home. Real estate transactions often require formal pest inspections (especially for termites). See our cost guides for inspection pricing in your area.
• DIY attempts have not worked. If over-the-counter products have not resolved the problem, professional treatment is likely needed. Waiting longer typically increases the eventual treatment cost.

Most pest control companies offer free inspections for termites and general pest issues. Take advantage of this to get 2 to 3 quotes before committing. For guidance on when professional help is warranted, see when to call an exterminator.

How Much Does Pest Control Cost by Pest Type?

The single biggest factor in pest control pricing is the pest itself. General household pests cost relatively little to treat, while specialized pests like termites and bed bugs require more intensive methods, more product, and often multiple visits. Below is a breakdown of what homeowners can expect to pay for the 12 most common pest categories in 2026.

Ants

A one-time ant extermination costs $150 to $300 for common species like sugar ants, pavement ants, and odorous house ants. Carpenter ants cost more, typically $250 to $500, because they nest inside wood and require targeted treatment with specialized products to reach the colony. Fire ants in the Southeast and Southwest run $150 to $350 depending on the number of mounds and the yard size. Most ant treatments involve perimeter spray, bait stations, and addressing entry points. Severe indoor carpenter ant infestations may require wall void treatment or dust application, which adds to the cost.

Cockroaches

Cockroach extermination costs $100 to $400 for a one-time treatment. The price varies dramatically by species. American and Oriental cockroaches respond well to a single perimeter treatment and are on the lower end of the range. German cockroach treatment is the most expensive, often running $200 to $400+, because German cockroaches reproduce rapidly and require a multi-step approach using gel bait, insect growth regulators (IGRs), and at least one follow-up visit. German cockroach infestations in kitchens and bathrooms almost always need two to three treatments spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart for full elimination.

Bed Bugs

Bed bug treatment has the widest cost range of any common pest, running $300 to $4,000 depending on the method and the extent of the infestation. Chemical treatment costs $300 to $1,500 and typically requires two to three visits. Bed bug heat treatment costs $1,500 to $4,000 but usually resolves the problem in a single visit by raising room temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Whole-home fumigation for severe infestations can exceed $4,000. The number of affected rooms is the primary cost driver, with each additional room adding $200 to $400 for chemical treatment or $500 to $1,000 for heat treatment.

Termites

Termite treatment costs $550 to $3,000+ depending on the treatment method and the linear footage of the home's foundation. Liquid barrier treatment runs $3 to $16 per linear foot and creates a chemical perimeter around the home. Subterranean termite bait station systems cost $8 to $12 per linear foot and require ongoing monitoring. Full-structure fumigation for drywood termites costs $2,500 to $8,000 or more, making it the most expensive single pest treatment homeowners face. Annual termite inspections ($50 to $150) catch infestations early before they reach the level where expensive whole-structure treatment is necessary.

Rodents

Rodent extermination costs $200 to $600 and involves both trapping and exclusion work. Mouse removal typically falls on the lower end at $150 to $300 because mice are easier to trap and their entry points are smaller. Rat removal costs $300 to $600 because rats require larger traps, more exclusion work, and are more cautious around bait. The real cost driver with rodents is exclusion: sealing all entry points (gaps, cracks, pipe penetrations) to prevent re-entry. Exclusion work alone can cost $200 to $500 or more depending on the number of entry points and the home's construction.

Mosquitoes

A one-time mosquito treatment costs $100 to $350 and provides 2 to 4 weeks of reduced mosquito activity. Seasonal mosquito programs running from April through October cost $400 to $900 total for monthly treatments. Mosquito misting systems, which are permanent installations that automatically spray at scheduled intervals, cost $2,000 to $4,000 for the system plus $50 to $100 per month for maintenance and refills. Most homeowners in moderate mosquito areas find that seasonal spray programs offer the best value, while misting systems make sense only for properties with severe, persistent mosquito problems.

Spiders

Spider treatment costs $100 to $300 for a one-time service. In most cases, spider infestations resolve with a general pest control treatment because spiders feed on other insects. Eliminating their food source through perimeter treatment and interior pest control usually reduces spider populations significantly. Brown recluse and black widow treatments may cost slightly more due to the targeted approach required, but pricing still falls within the general range. Recurring spider issues often indicate a broader pest problem that a quarterly plan addresses more effectively than repeated one-time treatments.

Fleas

Flea treatment costs $150 to $400 for professional service and almost always requires at least one follow-up treatment. Flea pupae are resistant to insecticides, so eggs and pupae that survive the initial treatment hatch and require a second application 2 to 4 weeks later. Homeowners with pets should coordinate flea treatment with veterinary flea prevention for the animals. Without treating both the home and the pets simultaneously, reinfestation is nearly guaranteed. Yard treatments for outdoor flea populations add $100 to $200 to the total cost.

Wasps and Hornets

Wasp nest removal costs $100 to $400 depending on the nest location and species. Ground-level nests and exposed nests under eaves are straightforward and cost $100 to $200. Nests inside wall voids, soffits, or other enclosed spaces cost $200 to $400 because the technician must access the nest, treat it, and sometimes remove it physically to prevent secondary pest problems from dead insects. Hornet nest removal, particularly for bald-faced hornets, tends to run on the higher end because hornets are more aggressive and nests are often located high in trees or under rooflines. Emergency and after-hours wasp removal may carry a $50 to $100 surcharge.

Scorpions

Scorpion treatment costs $150 to $350 per visit. In high-pressure areas like Arizona, Nevada, and parts of Texas, scorpion control is typically an ongoing monthly service rather than a one-time treatment. Monthly scorpion plans run $40 to $60 per visit after an initial treatment. The treatment focuses on perimeter spraying, sealing entry points, and reducing harborage areas (rock piles, debris, woodpiles). Homes that border undeveloped desert land generally require more aggressive and frequent treatment than homes in established neighborhoods.

Ticks

Tick treatment costs $150 to $400 per application and is often combined with mosquito treatment since the same yard spraying addresses both pests. Seasonal tick programs cost $400 to $800 for the active season (typically April through October in most regions). Tick treatment is especially important in Lyme disease-endemic areas of the Northeast and Upper Midwest. The treatment involves perimeter and yard spraying with a focus on tall grass, leaf litter, wooded edges, and areas where wildlife (deer, rodents) travel.

Wildlife

Wildlife removal has the broadest cost range, running $200 to $1,500+ depending on the animal, the location, and the extent of exclusion work needed. Squirrel removal from an attic costs $200 to $500, raccoon removal runs $300 to $600, and bat colony exclusion can cost $500 to $1,500 or more. The exclusion work is what drives the price: sealing all entry and exit points, installing one-way exclusion doors, and repairing any damage caused by the animals. Wildlife removal should always be handled by licensed professionals, as many species are protected by state and local regulations.

How Much Does Pest Control Cost by Treatment Method?

The treatment method your pest control company recommends significantly affects the final price. Some methods are best suited for specific pests, while others serve as general-purpose treatments. Understanding the cost differences helps you evaluate whether a quote is reasonable and whether the proposed method matches your pest problem.

Perimeter Spray Treatment

Perimeter spray treatment costs $150 to $300 and is the most common method for general household pests. The technician sprays a liquid insecticide around the exterior foundation, along window frames, doorways, and other entry points. Interior spot treatments may be included for active infestations. This method works well for ants, spiders, cockroaches (except German cockroaches), and other crawling insects. The treatment typically lasts 60 to 90 days, which is why quarterly plans align with this method.

Gel Bait and Bait Stations

Gel bait and bait station treatments cost $150 to $400 and are the primary method for German cockroaches, ants, and some rodent situations. Gel bait is applied in cracks, crevices, and harborage areas where pests are active. The bait attracts pests, which consume it and carry it back to the colony, eliminating the population at its source. This method is more targeted and less disruptive than spraying, and it works in sensitive areas like kitchens and food preparation spaces. Bait stations for rodents cost $5 to $15 each, with most homes requiring 6 to 12 stations.

Granular Broadcast Treatment

Granular broadcast treatment costs $100 to $300 and is used primarily for outdoor pests like fire ants, lawn grubs, fleas, and ticks. The technician spreads granular insecticide across the yard, focusing on problem areas. Granular treatments are especially effective for fire ant mound treatment and broad yard coverage. They typically require watering after application to activate the product and last 30 to 60 days depending on rainfall and irrigation.

Dust Application

Dust application costs $100 to $250 and is used to treat wall voids, attic spaces, crawl spaces, and other enclosed areas where liquid spray cannot reach. Insecticidal dust (such as diatomaceous earth or boric acid) is injected through small holes into voids where pests nest or travel. This method is particularly effective for carpenter ants in wall voids, wasps in eaves, and bed bugs in cracks and crevices. The dust provides long-lasting residual protection, often remaining effective for months in undisturbed areas.

Heat Treatment

Heat treatment costs $1,500 to $4,000 and is used primarily for bed bugs. Specialized equipment heats the treatment area to 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, killing bed bugs at all life stages including eggs. Heat treatment is chemical-free, which appeals to homeowners with chemical sensitivities or concerns about pesticide exposure. The primary advantage is that heat treatment typically resolves bed bug infestations in a single visit, while chemical treatment usually requires two to three visits over several weeks. The high cost reflects the specialized equipment, multiple technicians required, and the 6 to 8 hours of treatment time per room.

Fumigation and Tenting

Fumigation costs $2,500 to $8,000 and involves sealing the entire structure under a tent and filling it with gas fumigant (typically sulfuryl fluoride). This is the most expensive pest control method and is reserved for drywood termite infestations and severe, whole-structure pest problems. The home must be vacated for 2 to 3 days during fumigation. Tenting a house costs $4 to $8 per square foot, so a 2,000-square-foot home runs $8,000 to $16,000 at the high end for full structural fumigation. Fumigation should only be used when less expensive treatment methods have been ruled out or when the infestation is too widespread for targeted treatment.

Liquid Barrier and Soil Treatment

Liquid barrier treatment costs $1,200 to $3,000 and is the standard method for subterranean termite control. The technician trenches around the foundation and applies liquid termiticide to create a continuous chemical barrier in the soil. Termites that cross the treated zone are killed or repelled. This method requires specialized equipment for drilling and injection in some cases, particularly around concrete slabs, patios, and driveways. The treatment typically lasts 5 to 10 years depending on the product used. Annual inspections ($50 to $150) are recommended to verify the barrier remains effective.

Trapping and Exclusion

Trapping and exclusion costs $200 to $1,500 depending on the pest and the scope of work. Trapping alone is used for rodents and wildlife, while exclusion involves sealing entry points to prevent pests from entering the structure. Rodent exclusion (sealing gaps around pipes, vents, and foundation cracks) runs $200 to $500. Wildlife exclusion (installing one-way doors, screening vents, repairing soffits) ranges from $300 to $1,500 depending on the animal and the number of entry points. Exclusion is the only long-term solution for rodent and wildlife problems because trapping alone does not prevent new animals from entering.

How Much Does Pest Control Cost by Home Size?

Home size affects pest control cost because larger homes require more product, more time, and more linear footage of perimeter treatment. However, the relationship between home size and cost is not always linear. Some treatments are priced per visit regardless of size, while others scale directly with square footage or perimeter length.

Apartment or Condo (Under 1,000 sq ft)

General pest control for apartments and condos costs $100 to $250 per treatment. Smaller spaces require less product and less time, which keeps costs at the lower end of the range. However, attached units face a unique challenge: pests can migrate from neighboring units. A cockroach or bed bug problem in one apartment unit often requires coordinated treatment of multiple units for effective control. Apartment renters should check their lease, as some landlords include pest control as part of the rental agreement. For pest control responsibilities in rental housing, see our guide on pest control for rental properties.

Small Home (Under 1,500 sq ft)

Pest control for homes under 1,500 square feet costs $150 to $300 for a one-time general treatment. This is the baseline pricing that most companies quote and the range reflected in national averages. Homes in this size category have shorter foundation perimeters and fewer rooms, which keeps treatment time and product usage manageable. Quarterly plans for this size range run $100 to $200 per visit.

Medium Home (1,500 to 2,500 sq ft)

Medium-sized homes cost $200 to $400 for general pest control. The price increase reflects the additional perimeter length, more rooms to inspect and treat, and higher product usage. Homes with crawl spaces add complexity and may add $50 to $100 to the treatment cost. Two-story homes in this size range generally cost the same as single-story homes for perimeter treatment but may cost more for interior treatment if pests are present on multiple floors.

Large Home (2,500 to 4,000 sq ft)

Large homes cost $300 to $500 for general pest control. The additional square footage increases treatment time to 60 to 90 minutes versus 30 to 45 minutes for smaller homes. Homes with complex layouts, multiple crawl space sections, or extensive landscaping may see costs at the higher end. For termite treatment, which is priced by linear foot, a larger home with 200+ linear feet of foundation can cost significantly more than a smaller home with 120 linear feet.

Very Large Home (Over 4,000 sq ft)

Homes over 4,000 square feet cost $400 to $700+ for general pest control. At this size, most companies provide custom quotes rather than standard pricing. The treatment time, product volume, and perimeter footage all contribute to higher costs. Some treatments do not scale with home size, however. Bait station treatments for ants or cockroaches cost roughly the same regardless of home size because the number of stations depends on pest activity, not square footage. Similarly, a single wasp nest removal costs the same whether the home is 1,500 or 5,000 square feet. For a personalized estimate based on your home, call (866) 821-0263 or request a free estimate.

How Much Does Pest Control Cost by Region?

Where you live significantly affects what you pay for pest control. Labor costs, cost of living, competitive density, and pest pressure all vary by region. The calculator above includes a regional adjustment factor, but here is a more detailed breakdown of how pricing differs across six major U.S. regions. For state-level data, see our pest control cost by state guide.

Northeast (+15% to 25% Above National Average)

The Northeast has the highest pest control costs in the country, driven by higher labor rates and cost of living. A general pest control visit that costs $175 nationally may cost $200 to $220 in the Northeast. Termite treatments also run higher, averaging $2,000 to $3,500+ for liquid barrier treatment. Cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia represent the high end of pricing in this region. The shorter pest season (primarily spring through fall) means fewer treatment visits annually, but each visit costs more.

Southeast (At or Slightly Above National Average)

The Southeast has moderate to slightly above-average pricing with year-round pest pressure. The warm, humid climate supports populations of cockroaches, ants, mosquitoes, termites, and a wide range of other pests throughout the year. This makes ongoing plans especially common and cost-effective in the region. Cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, Tampa, and Nashville fall near the national average for pricing, while Miami runs slightly higher due to severe year-round termite and mosquito pressure.

Midwest (5% to 10% Below National Average)

The Midwest generally offers the lowest pest control prices in the country due to lower labor costs and reduced year-round pest pressure. Harsh winters kill off many outdoor pest populations, shortening the treatment season. A general treatment that costs $175 nationally may run $155 to $165 in Midwest markets. Cities like Chicago, Columbus, Indianapolis, and Minneapolis all fall below the national average. However, indoor pest issues (mice, cockroaches, bed bugs) remain common year-round regardless of climate.

Southwest (At or Slightly Below Average, Scorpion Exception)

The Southwest has average to slightly below-average pricing for most pest types, with one notable exception: scorpions. Scorpion control is a significant and ongoing expense for homeowners in Phoenix, Las Vegas, and surrounding areas. Monthly scorpion treatment adds $40 to $60 per visit to pest control budgets. General pest pricing in cities like San Antonio, Austin, Houston, and Dallas falls near or slightly below the national average.

West Coast (+10% to 20% Above National Average)

The West Coast has above-average pest control costs, driven primarily by high labor costs and cost of living in California. Los Angeles, San Diego, and Sacramento all run 10 to 20% above national averages. Drywood termites are a particular concern in Southern California, where fumigation costs can exceed $5,000 for typical homes. Seattle and Portland have slightly lower costs than California but still run above the national average due to regional labor rates.

Mountain West (Near National Average)

The Mountain West (Colorado, Utah, Idaho, Montana) generally falls near the national average for pest control pricing. Denver and Salt Lake City have growing pest control markets with competitive pricing. The region has lower year-round pest pressure than the South but faces seasonal issues with mice, spiders, wasps, and occasional carpenter ants. The relatively moderate cost of living keeps labor rates and, by extension, pest control prices close to national norms.

How Can You Save Money on Pest Control?

Pest control is a necessary expense for many homeowners, but there are several proven strategies to reduce what you pay without sacrificing quality of service.

Get at least 3 quotes. Pricing varies 30 to 50% between companies in the same market for the same service. Getting three quotes ensures you understand the local price range and can identify outliers on both ends. Do not automatically choose the cheapest option; compare what is included in each quote.

Ask for the total annual cost, not just per-visit pricing. A monthly plan at $50 per visit sounds cheaper than a quarterly plan at $150 per visit, but the annual cost is $600 versus $600 (and the monthly plan has a higher initial treatment cost). Always calculate the full-year total before committing to a plan. For help evaluating plan value, see is pest control worth it?.

Schedule treatments in the off-season. Many pest control companies offer 10 to 20% discounts during their slow season (typically late fall and winter in most regions). If your pest problem is not urgent, scheduling an initial treatment in November or December can save meaningful money. Companies have more availability and more motivation to offer competitive pricing during slower months.

Bundle services. If you need treatment for multiple pest types (for example, ants and mosquitoes), ask about bundled pricing. Most companies offer a discount for combining services rather than booking them separately. Some companies also bundle pest control with lawn care or termite monitoring, which can reduce the per-service cost.

Invest in preventive maintenance. Sealing cracks, fixing moisture issues, trimming vegetation away from the foundation, and eliminating food sources reduces pest pressure and can reduce the frequency (and cost) of professional treatment. For tips on prevention, see our guide on DIY vs. professional pest control.

Ask about callback policies. Companies that include free callbacks between scheduled visits offer better value than companies that charge for every visit. If pests return within a guaranteed period, a callback at no charge saves you the cost of an additional one-time treatment ($150 to $300).

Skip unnecessary add-ons. Some companies upsell services like monthly interior spray (unnecessary for most general pest control) or premium products at significant markups. Ask what the standard treatment includes and whether the add-on is truly necessary for your pest situation. A reputable technician will recommend only what is needed.

What Should You Watch for in a Pest Control Quote?

A good pest control quote should be transparent, detailed, and specific to your property. At minimum, it should include the target pest species, the treatment method, the areas to be treated, the number of visits included, the total cost (not just per-visit), any guarantee or warranty terms, and safety information including re-entry times and pet precautions.

Beyond confirming those basics, watch for these six red flags that suggest a company may not be operating in your best interest:

Vague "general pest" language. A quote that simply says "general pest treatment" without specifying which pests it covers and which treatment methods will be used is too vague. Different pests require different methods. Ask for specifics on what is included and what is excluded.

Low first-visit price with a required long-term contract. Some companies advertise a heavily discounted first visit ($49 or $99) but require a 12 to 24 month contract at full price. If you cancel early, you owe the difference. Calculate the full contract cost before signing, and confirm the cancellation terms in writing.

High-pressure sales tactics. Legitimate pest control companies will inspect your property, explain what they find, and give you time to decide. If a technician insists you must sign today, warns of imminent structural damage without evidence, or refuses to leave a written quote for you to review, consider it a red flag. For more warning signs, see our guide on pest control scams to avoid.

No written warranty or guarantee. Reputable companies guarantee their work, typically offering free re-treatment if pests return within a specified period (30 to 90 days for one-time treatments, between visits for plan customers). If a company will not put their guarantee in writing, that signals a lack of confidence in their own work.

Fumigation recommended as the first option. Fumigation is the most expensive treatment method and should be a last resort, not a first recommendation. If a company suggests tenting your home for an ant problem or a moderate cockroach infestation, get a second opinion. Fumigation is primarily appropriate for drywood termites and severe, whole-structure infestations that cannot be addressed with targeted treatment.

No preparation instructions or safety information. Before any treatment, the company should provide clear instructions on how to prepare your home and what safety precautions to take during and after treatment. This includes re-entry times, ventilation instructions, and precautions for pets and children. If a company does not provide this information, it raises concerns about their professionalism and your safety. For preparation details, see how to prepare for pest control. For pet safety concerns, see is pest control safe for pets?.

A trustworthy pest control company welcomes questions and provides detailed written quotes. If you want to compare quotes from qualified local providers, call (866) 821-0263 or request a free estimate to get connected with prescreened professionals in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions