What Is Pest Control? A Complete Guide

When you have a worsening pest problem in your home, it becomes an issue beyond what homeowners can handle. Time is of the essence—most pest infestations cause more damage the longer they go untreated. 

Enter pest control: All-purpose services designed to handle the worst encroachments of bugs, rodents, spiders and more. Let’s review the services included in pest control and when to hire an exterminator.

What Is Pest Control, and What Does It Include?

Simply put, pest control is the process of removing pest infestations from your home, addressing the root cause of the problem, and applying preventive measures to keep pests from returning. Professional pest control services manage serious infestations you can’t handle on your own, including dangerous or damaging bugs like termites, carpenter ants, and bed bugs.

Pest experts come armed with tools, equipment, sensors and specialized pesticides, as well as the necessary experience to recommend treatments that will solve the pest problem without harming anyone’s health. 

Check out these common pest control services:

• Whole-home inspections

• Extermination or eradication

• Baiting and trapping

• Integrated pest management

• Preventative treatment or recommendations

• Follow-up visits for major infestations

• Seasonal or annual maintenance plans

Pros and Cons of Pest Control Services

While pest control is recommended for major home infestations, keep these pros and cons in mind when deciding on services. 

Pros of Pest Control

Consider these advantages of pest control.

• Best option for serious infestations: There are some pest problems that you can’t DIY, like a termite infestation or impossible-to-track cockroaches. In serious cases, professional pest services are more or less mandatory.

• Pest control can pinpoint nests, hives and other sources: Even if you notice a line of ants or termites, it can be very difficult to find their nest and determine whether there’s more. The pros have heat detection equipment and other high-tech tools to pinpoint nest locations and create a targeted plan to eliminate them. 

• Discussing your options: Pest control can offer a variety of approaches, discuss common treatments for your specific issue, and help you choose the best long-term solution. Trust their professional opinion to ensure your home stays pest-free.

• Long-term treatments: Pest control treatments often focus on specialized pesticides that minimize toxic exposure while lasting for weeks or months. In serious infestations, they can arrange a schedule for repeated visits, annual re-ups on treatments, and similar long-term answers.

Cons of Pest Control

Consider these disadvantages of pest control.

• More expensive: Pest control services are more expensive than trying to DIY the problem with pesticides or home remedies. You’re hiring certified professionals with the right experience and tools for the job, so expect to pay extra for their high-quality services. 

• Arranging services can take time: In addition to researching the best local pest control companies, you’ll need to schedule an inspection and potentially several treatments. If you’re facing a major, threatening infestation, request immediate pest control services, but be prepared to pay a premium price for emergency services. 

• Potential scams: While the vast majority of pest control companies are trustworthy and hard-working, pest control scams exist. Avoid this type of situation by thoroughly vetting your service provider, requesting proof of licensing, and read the contract carefully.

How Much Does Pest Control Cost?

The cost of pest control services vary widely based on the type of pest, severity of the infestation, and type of treatment. The average pest control cost is $190, but typical visits range from $50 to $500. If you choose a quarterly visit by pest control, expect each visit to cost between $100 and $300. A scheduled annual visit will cost between $300 and $500.

Certain pests will cost far more than others to deal with. Termites are one of the more expensive visits because of how difficult it is to find and target nests, so costs can rise to $1,000 or more. While less-damaging pests like ants or fleas only cost between $100 to $500 to remove. Consult a local pest control professional to get a quote for your specific pest problem.