What people ask us
What should I expect when a pest control provider visits my home?
Most visits start with a walk-through. The provider asks what you have seen and where. Then they check the basement, attic, crawl spaces and outside walls. Next, they explain what they found, the options and the price in writing. Ask about the products used, pets and how long to stay out of treated areas. Right the first time starts with good questions.
Can I get rid of mice and rats myself?
Store-bought traps can catch a stray mouse or two. But a steady problem usually means animals have a way in. Older frame houses and bungalows have many small gaps around pipes, sills and rooflines. Poison can leave pests dying inside walls, which brings smells and new problems. A provider can find entry points, seal them and set traps safely. That protects insulation, wiring and resale value.
How do I know if I have termites?
Look for mud tubes on foundation walls, soft or hollow-sounding wood, and small piles of wings near windows after warm spells. Damp basements and wood touching soil raise the risk. Termites often hide for a long time, so signs can be easy to miss. If you spot anything odd, ask a local provider for an inspection before the damage spreads.
What time of year should I schedule pest control?
Season by season, the pests change. Spring rains and flooding push ants and crickets indoors. Hot, humid summers bring roaches and spiders. Cold winters send mice and rats looking for a warm attic or basement. Termites can be active when the soil warms. Many providers book up in busy seasons, so ask early about availability.
Do I need pest control or wildlife removal?
It depends on the animal. Pest control covers insects like ants, roaches, spiders and termites. Wildlife removal covers larger animals such as squirrels, raccoons and bats, and often rodents too. Some providers do both. Tell us what you are seeing and where, and we will point you toward a provider who handles it.
How can I keep pests from coming back?
Start with the house itself. Seal gaps around pipes and vents, fix leaky faucets, and keep gutters clear so water moves away from the foundation. Run a dehumidifier in the basement and store firewood away from siding. Keep food in sealed containers. Ask your provider for a short prevention list that fits your home.
Do bed bugs need professional treatment?
Usually, yes. Bed bugs hide in mattress seams, frames, outlets and baseboards, and home sprays often miss them. Some sprays only scatter them to other rooms. Bed bug treatment from a local provider normally includes a careful inspection and a plan for laundry and clutter. Follow the prep steps closely so the work holds up.
How much does pest control usually cost?
Costs vary by pest, home size and how bad the problem is. As typical U.S. ranges, a general pest visit often runs about $100 to $300. Termite treatment can run from several hundred to a few thousand dollars. Wildlife removal often starts around $200 to $600 or more. Always ask for a written quote and compare what each one includes.