How much should I expect to pay for insect control?

Hiring knowledgeable professionals who specialize in exterminating insects means you don't have to deal with the problem yourself.

They have the expertise to analyze the severity of the infestation and apply the proper treatments as needed. Professionals use a number of chemicals and products for insect control purposes that an unfamiliar, unknowing homeowner may use in excess or the wrong way.

Homeowners often encounter situations where they apply different kinds of treatments and then call the local exterminators anyway, costing more money in the long run. If you decide to pass on hiring an exterminator, know the types of treatments you need to use for the specific insect(s) you want to exterminate.

Typical Costs for Insect Control (Professional Services)

• Low-End Estimate: $100 (first application)
  
  
• High-End Estimate: $300 (first application)
  
  Live removal of bee colonies can result in a significantly higher cost between $75 and $700.

Additional Costs for Insect Control (Professional Services)

• Low-End Estimate: $25/month (follow-up applications)
  
  
• High-End Estimate: $60/month (follow-up applications)

Other Insect Control Methods/Costs

• Ant Control
  
  Low-End Estimate: $5
  
  High-End Estimate: $60
  
  Examples include: Poison bait; mixing boric acid with sugar; shake cinnamon, black pepper, or baby powder on problem areas; sprays designed for ant extermination

• Flea Control
  
  Low-End Estimate: $5
  
  High-End Estimate: $160
  
  Examples include: Flea foggers; flea insecticides; sprays designed for outdoor flea extermination

• Bee/Wasp Control
  
  Low-End Estimate: $5
  
  High-End Estimate: $700
  
  Examples include: Live removal of a bee colony; sprays designed for bee/wasp extermination

• Spider Control
  
  Low-End Estimate: $10
  
  High-End Estimate: $25
  
  Examples include: Pesticide powder; cobweb eliminator sprays; vacuuming spider infested areas; sprays designed for spider extermination

• Roach Control
  
  Low-End Estimate: $10
  
  High-End Estimate: $25
  
  Examples include: Roach traps; sprays designed for roach extermination

What to Expect from Insect Control Companies

• Most exterminators will inspect attics, basements, and crawl spaces, as well as examine the outside of your home, looking for signs of insects.
  
  
• Once your problem is determined, they will offer an appropriate course of action.
  
  
• Many exterminators offer a guarantee for a certain length of time, such as 6 months.
  
  
• For a fixed fee, they will treat your house, and if needed, will make follow-up visits at no charge during the warranty period.
  
  
• Many companies offer a free inspection as a way to gain your business, and you pay only if they find problems that need treatment.