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Home Services · Updated 2026-10-03

Pest Control near you: costs, licensing & how to hire

Termites, ants, rodents, wasps and bed bugs — licensed applicators who explain what they're spraying. Below: what pest control companies do, what they cost, how to check a license, and the questions to ask before you hire.

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What pest control companies do

The jobs people hire pest control companies for most.

General pest treatment

Ants, spiders, roaches and other insects, inside and out.

Termite inspection and treatment

Liquid barriers, baits and, for big infestations, tenting.

Rodent control

Trapping mice and rats and sealing the holes they use.

Stinging insects

Wasp, hornet and yellow jacket nest removal.

Bed bugs

Heat or chemical treatments and follow-up checks.

Wildlife

Raccoons, bats and squirrels, where the company is permitted.

How much do pest control companies cost?

Typical national price ranges. Prices in your town will vary, so always get a written quote.

JobTypical priceNotes
One-time treatment$100 – $600Depends on pest and home size
Quarterly plan$100 – $300 per visitAnnual plans $300–$900
Monthly service$40 – $75 per visit
Termite treatment$225 – $8,000Barrier $225–$2,500; tenting $2,000–$8,000

Source: HomeGuide pest control prices (2026). Checked 2026-10-03.

Does a pest control company need a license?

Pest control is one of the most regulated home services. Under federal law, anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be certified, and every state runs an EPA-approved program. Oregon requires a commercial applicator license to apply any pesticide on someone else's property, plus a license for the business. Ask for the applicator's license number.

Sources: Certification standards for pesticide applicators (EPA) · Oregon pesticide license requirements (ODA)

Good to know

  • Get a termite inspection every year (National Pest Management Association).
  • Termites cause about $5 billion in U.S. property damage a year, and insurance usually doesn't cover it (NPMA).

Questions to ask a pest control company before you hire

Ask these on the phone or at the estimate. A good pro answers every one without dodging.

  1. What's your state pesticide license number, and who's the licensed applicator?
  2. What pest do you think it is, and what products will you use?
  3. Is this one-time or a contract? How do I cancel, and what does that cost?
  4. Is it safe for kids and pets? How long should we stay out?
  5. If the pests come back, do you re-treat for free?

Red flags to watch for

Warning signs from consumer protection agencies and trade groups.

  • Door-to-door sellers who push you to decide right now. Source
  • A "special deal" just for your neighborhood. Source
  • Hidden fees or high cancellation fees in the contract. Source
  • A contract that auto-renews without your clear OK. Source

If you get scammed, report it to your state attorney general's consumer protection office and at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Why find pest control companies on Great Local Pros?

Every pro is checked

We check the business, the license where your state requires one, and that someone answers the phone before we list them. See our standards.

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Pros here don't pay per lead, so that cost isn't built into your quote.

Built for small towns

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Most towns don't have a pest control company listed yet. Get a free profile page with your phone number, services, service area and a link to your website, with no lead fees. If you're licensed where required, insured and quick to answer, you'll fit right in.

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Common questions about hiring pest control companies

How much does pest control cost?
A one-time treatment usually costs $100 to $600. Ongoing plans often run $100 to $300 per quarterly visit, or $300 to $900 a year.
Do pest control workers need a license?
Yes. Every state certifies or licenses pesticide applicators under federal rules. Ask for the license number and check it with your state's agriculture or pesticide agency.
How often should I get a termite inspection?
Once a year, says the National Pest Management Association. Termite damage usually isn't covered by homeowners insurance.
Do I have to sign a yearly contract?
No. Many companies offer one-time service. If you sign a plan, read the auto-renewal and cancellation terms first.
Is pest control safe for pets and kids?
Ask what product will be used and how long to stay off treated areas. A licensed applicator should explain this before spraying.