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5 Best Pest Control Companies (March 2024 Guide)

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Author Icon By Brenda Woods Updated 03/05/2024

Pests are never welcome guests in your home. Some insects, such as termites, bed bugs, and cockroaches, are especially difficult to manage. Hiring a pest control company can help you eliminate these infestations. Many providers also offer preventive pest control plans to get ahead of future problems.

Our team researched pest control companies based on costs, treatment plans, and customer reviews. We secret-shopped each company to analyze customer service, communication, and knowledgeability. This guide covers the pros and cons of each option so you can find the right one for your home.

See our list of top pest control companies based on in-depth research.

Select the company that best meets your needs.

Get a free, no-obligation quote for your home.


The Best Pest Control Companies in 2024

Terminix: Best for Termite Control
Orkin: Best General Pest Control
Hawx: Best for Mosquito Control
J.C. Ehrlich: Best Supplementary Services
Aptive: Best for Custom Plans

Compare The Top Pest Control Companies

Star Rating BBB Rating Phone Link
Terminix Terminix
A 866-569-4035 Visit Site
Orkin Orkin
A+ 877-868-1416 Visit Site
Hawx Hawx
B 818-273-1741 Visit Site
J.C. Ehrlich J.C. Ehrlich
A+ 866-694-7028 Visit Site
Aptive Aptive
B+ 844-573-7111 Visit Site
Terminix
Logo Terminix
Star Rating
BBB Rating A
Phone 866-569-4035
Visit Site
Orkin
Logo Orkin
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
Phone 877-868-1416
Visit Site
Hawx
Logo Hawx
Star Rating
BBB Rating B
Phone 818-273-1741
Visit Site
J.C. Ehrlich
Logo J.C. Ehrlich
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
Phone 866-694-7028
Visit Site
Aptive
Logo Aptive
Star Rating
BBB Rating B+
Phone 844-573-7111
Visit Site
Providers
Star Rating
BBB Rating
A
A+
B
A+
B+

To find a link to your state’s Department of Agriculture website, select your state from the dropdown menu below.

Our Review of the Best Pest Control Companies

Having a pest control company to help you maintain a pest-free home is crucial in preventing damage to your property and avoiding health risks associated with pests. These companies offer a variety of services to keep your home safe from pests such as rodents, termites, and bed bugs. Here are our top picks for the best professional pest control companies:

Terminix

Best for Termite Control
4.7

We gave Terminix 4.7 stars out of 5, one of the highest scores awarded to any provider we’ve rated. The company has more than 90 years of experience in the pest control industry and services 2.8 million residential and commercial customers worldwide. The company has a reservice and money-back guarantee and is available in 47 states. It offers easy 24/7 online customer service with an efficient real-time chat function, and it’s generally more affordable than the other companies we reviewed.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers advanced, industry-leading termite treatments Provides an instant online chat Offers great service guarantees Cons Is not available in all 50 states Has mixed customer reviews depending on location

Terminix Pest Treatment Plans

Terminix offers three plans for termite control and prevention.

  • Basic Termite Plan: Includes an annual termite inspection, installation of a continuous termite protection system, and a reservice guarantee
  • Advanced Termite Plan: Includes Basic Termite Plan services plus an extended reservice guarantee that also covers repairs for new termite damage
  • Premium Termite Plan: Includes all services and guarantees in the Advanced Termite Plan plus ongoing pest control against 13 other household pests

You can also schedule one-time or quarterly treatment for broader pest control, including for ants, cockroaches, mice, and more.

Pests Covered by Terminix

Terminix offers general pest control for common household critters such as wasps and moths, as well as special treatment programs for termites, bed bugs,  mosquitoes,

Pests Covered by Terminix

  • Cockroaches
  • Ants
  • Rodents
  • Stinging insects
  • Fleas
  • Spiders
  • Termites
  • Bed bugs
  • Mosquitoes

Cost

During our secret shopping process, we requested a quote for a three-bedroom home in Nashville. Terminix gave us the following price estimate for quarterly pest control:

  • Quarterly Pest Control: $119 (or $39.67 monthly)
  • One-Time Pest Control: $249

Orkin

Best General Pest Control
4.7

We awarded Orkin a score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. After researching and reviewing Orkin, we found that it offers the most customer resources and provides comprehensive pest control plans. Orkin is a trusted name in the pest control industry, having been in business for more than 100 years. The company services 1.7 million residential and commercial customers in 49 states. It uses an Integrated Pest Management Approach, which aims to treat pests in the most economical way with the least hazard to people, property, and the environment. The company has reservice and money-back guarantees and offers 24/7 customer support.

During our secret-shopping process, a member of our team noted that Orkin’s technicians were knowledgeable, polite, and professional. The technician asked if there were pets and small children in the home and reassured our team member that their pest solutions were pet- and kid-safe. They also explained the entire process during the walkthrough.

Pros and Cons

Pros Has more than a century of pest control experience Has some of the widest coverage for general pest control Offers quality customer service from technicians and online representatives Cons Doesn’t offer online chat Does not offer treatment for some niche pests such as bats

Orkin Pest Treatment Plans

Orkin customizes its termite and pest control plans to your home’s needs. It uses liquid and dry foam treatments for termite prevention. For general pest control, Orkin will treat your home for ants, bed bugs, cockroaches, fleas, mosquitoes, and other common pests. The company’s pest control specialists will fortify your home as necessary, sealing gaps and plugging holes to block pests from entering the structure.

Other Orkin services include the following:

    • Attic insulation that doubles as a pest barrier

    • Gutter protection that prevents pests from building nests

    • Lawn treatment for pests (Florida only)

  • Wildlife control (varies by branch)

Pests Covered by Orkin

Orkin’s general pest control plan protects against up to 20 household common pests, including ants, roaches, mice, and spiders. The company also offers options for termite and bed bug extermination using proprietary technology and products.

Pests Covered by Orkin

  • Cockroaches,
  • Ants
  • Rodents
  • Stinging insects
  • Fleas
  • Spiders
  • Termites
  • Bed bugs
  • Mosquitoes

 

Cost

We reached out to Orkin for a general pest inspection and targeted pest control on a 2,000-square-foot home with an average-sized lot. Our team member requested treatments for two of the most common household pests, ants and spiders. The Orkin representative gave us an over-the-phone estimate of just over $350.

Factors such as location, climate, infestation level, home size, and pest type can all affect treatment costs. Orkin provides free over-the-phone estimates, but the final price will be determined after an in-person inspection.

Hawx

Best for Mosquito Control
3.8

We rated Hawx 3.8 out of 5 stars. While Hawx lost points due to its lower state availability, it scored highly for its plan options, guarantees, and user-friendly website. We recommend this company for mosquito treatment if it’s available in your area. Though a smaller company, Hawx has glowing customer reviews across multiple review sites, including the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Best Company. The company is available in 16 states and has a reservice guarantee but does not offer 24/7 customer support.

Pros and Cons

Pros Will re-treat your home at no additional cost if pests return between treatments Offers convenient text-message communication with technicians Has an impressive mosquito control plan Cons Has higher prices than its competitors Charges an early termination fee if you cancel before the end of your contract

Hawx Pest Treatment Plans

We believe Hawx offers the best mosquito plan. In addition to treating mosquitoes, a technician will identify stagnant water puddles and other damp areas of your yard that may be nesting sites.

Hawx offers residential and commercial pest control services. The pest control treatment process starts at the structure’s foundation and extends to the eaves, lawn, and perimeter of the property. For its residential plan, Hawx can service your home quarterly or bi-monthly. It claims to target more than 40 pests.

The Mosquito Abatement Plan involves monthly treatments during peak mosquito season and comes with a satisfaction guarantee.

Pests Covered by Hawx

Hawx offers a comprehensive Home Service Plan covering spiders, ants, cockroaches, ticks, wasps, hornets, and bees. It also offers a Mosquito Abatement Plan customized to your property, including targeted treatments for mosquito larvae before they hatch.

Pests Covered by Hawx

  • Cockroaches
  • Ants
  • Rodents
  • Stinging insects
  • Fleas
  • Spiders
  • Termites
  • Bed bugs
  • Mosquitoes

Cost

Hawx must inspect your home to determine a pest control plan and provide a quote. No online pricing information is currently available. Between scheduled treatments, Hawx will provide free reservice as necessary.

J.C. Ehrlich

Best Supplementary Services
4.1

J.C. Ehrlich, a subsidiary of Rentokil, scored 4.1 out of 5 stars. The company stands out for its comprehensive general pest control plan and large support network. Though it offers a vague customer satisfaction guarantee, it has a useful online chat function that allows you to communicate with representatives in real time. J.C. Ehrlich has 750 professionally trained pest control specialists across the United States, as well as entomologists for on-site consultations. Ehrlich’s pest control plans focus on risk assessment, reassurance, and responsiveness. The company is available in 18 states and does not offer 24/7 customer support.

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes bed bugs in its general plans Is GreenPro and QualityPro certified Offers secondary services such as air purification, TAP insulation, bioremediation, and moisture control Cons Has a connection to Rentokil that may cause confusing communication Limits its availability to only 18 states

J.C. Ehrlich Pest Treatment Plans

J.C. Ehrlich offers residential and commercial pest control services targeting a wide range of insects, wood-destroying organisms, rodents, and more. Its treatment approach and frequency will depend on your preferences and the nature of your infestation. With J.C. Ehrlich’s PestFree365+ plan, the company provides treatment for more than 36 pests over one year.

Additional services include pest fumigation, moisture control services, thermal acoustical pest control, and more.

Pests Covered by J.C. Ehrlich

The company covers approximately 40 pests with its comprehensive, year-round PestFree365+ program.

Pests Covered by J.C. Ehrlich

  • Ants
  • Bees
  • Bed bugs
  • Crickets
  • Fabric pests
  • Fleas
  • Flies
  • Mosquitoes
  • Moths
  • Spiders
  • Stink bugs
  • Wasps, and more

Cost

J.C. Ehrlich’s service cost will depend on several factors, including your home’s location, the pest type, and the extent of the infestation. A specialist will inspect your home to determine the best treatment options.

J.C. Ehrlich’s website has an online pricing tool for estimating service costs. For a 2,000-square-foot home in North Carolina, the company estimated that a one-time pest control service would cost approximately $326. Its PestFree365+ plan came to $43 per month for the same property.

Aptive

Best for Custom Plans
4.1

We rated Aptive 4.1 out of 5 stars. Aptive is a new but fast-growing provider. It was named one of the Best Companies in America by Entrepreneur Magazine and ranks high on Pest Control Technology’s Top 100. As a member of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program, Aptive engages with communities to build environmental awareness and reduce pesticide risk, making it an eco-friendly option. It’s available in 32 states, offers 24/7 customer support, has a reservice guarantee and is committed to tailoring treatments for each customer.

Pros and Cons

Pros Provides highly flexible and customizable pest control plans Sends technicians to your home to address any issues between scheduled visits Is a member of the EPA’s Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program Cons Doesn’t treat termites or bed bugs Has received customer complaints about aggressive sales

Aptive Pest Treatment Plans

Aptive offers customized pest treatment plans based on your location. Its specialists conduct treatment services quarterly and provide free reservice as necessary. Aptive specialists will first treat your property by flushing active infestations. They will return in 20 to 40 days to target eggs and larvae before transitioning to a normal treatment schedule. Aptive typically services only the exterior of your home, but it may offer interior treatments per customer request.

Pests Covered by Aptive

Pests Covered by Aptive

  • Ants
  • Aphids
  • Centipedes
  • Cockroaches
  • Crickets
  • Earwigs
  • Fleas
  • Grain Beetles
  • Granary Rice Weevils
  • Meal Moths
  • Millipedes
  • Mud Daubers
  • Pill Bugs
  • Rodents
  • Scorpions
  • Silverfish
  • Snails
  • Ticks
  • Wasps
  • Yellow Jackets

Cost

Aptive does not provide online pricing information and requires you to undergo the inspection process with a specialist who will tailor a plan to your home’s needs. The company published a post on its blog stating the average cost of a single pest control treatment in Sacramento is roughly $500. However, this cost can vary considerably depending on your home’s needs and location.


What Is the Average Cost for Pest Control Service?

According to our sample quotes, the average cost for general pest control for a 2,000-square-foot home is $300–$550. However, this might not be applicable in all cases. The cost of pest control depends on a variety of factors, including the type of pest you’re dealing with, the degree of infestation, the number of treatments you need, and your home size.

​​What Factors Are Important To Consider When Choosing a Pest Control Company?

Not all pest control companies cover every kind of pest. We recommend considering your pest infestation type when selecting a company. We cover this and other important factors to consider below:

Type of Pests

Perhaps the most important factor is which pests you want protection from. Many pest control companies offer treatment plans for common pests (such as ants and spiders) but lack coverage for more difficult-to-remove critters. Removing pests such as termites, ticks, bats, and fleas typically requires specialty treatments not included in standard plans. Some pest control companies don’t offer treatments for these kinds of pests at all.

Pest Control Costs

Your budget is key, and pest control costs can vary wildly from company to company. It’s always a good idea to shop around for several quotes before making a final decision.

Pest control companies might give you a general estimate over the phone, but they’ll need to do an in-home inspection to give you the most accurate quote. It’s also important to research the billing process. Some providers offer one-time payments, while others follow a standardized billing cycle.

Each pest control company’s plans are unique, so costs will vary among providers. The following factors determine what you’ll pay:

  • Pest type: Some pests are more difficult to eliminate than others or require specialty treatments.
  • Degree of pest infestation: Serious infestations will cost more to resolve than a smaller pest population.
  • Number of treatments: If you need several pest control treatments, it will cost more than one standard treatment.
  • Property size: The larger your property, the more you’ll have to pay for pest control services.

Plan Schedules

You can typically choose how often a pest control company will come to your home when you sign up for its services. Many companies have one-time, monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, and annual treatment plans. However, some companies are more restrictive. Check a company’s scheduling options, especially if you need frequent treatments.

Guarantees

Most pest control companies offer a service guarantee, but the terms vary. Some companies offer free reservice if pests return, while others include a full refund for the unsuccessful treatment if you remain a customer.

Orkin Guarantee

Orkin offers a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee that ensures free reservice if pests return between scheduled visits. If the pest issue can’t be resolved, Orkin will refund your most recent service payment as long as you remain a customer.

Terminix Guarantees

Terminix provides different guarantees, depending on the service.

Terminix offers a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for its general pest control plan that states a Terminix technician will re-treat pests for free if they return. The company will also refund your latest payment if you aren’t 100% satisfied with your service.

Terminix offers an Ultimate Protection Guarantee for termites. Qualifying homeowners will never have to pay for treatment or repairs from termite damage as long as they maintain their plan.

Finally, Terminix offers a comprehensive Bed Bug Guarantee. The company will provide free reservice if you find bed bugs in a treated area within 30 days. The guarantee increases to 90 days if you buy a mattress encasement for every mattress and box spring in your house.

Customer Reviews

One of the most effective ways to determine if a company is reliable is by reading its history of complaints and customer reviews. Trustworthy companies will have overall positive or neutral customer reviews. Check if the company has responded to negative reviews to rectify customer problems. Even nationally recognized and trusted brands may have underperforming branch locations, so we recommend reading reviews for your local brand.

Check websites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and each company’s Google My Business page for independent customer responses.


Should You DIY or Hire Professional Pest Control?

Hiring a professional pest control company may be worth it if you’re experiencing a full-blown infestation. Most pest control companies offer a general plan that covers common household issues. The company will inspect your home before creating a tailored treatment plan and returning regularly to monitor the situation.

The best pest control companies have highly trained technicians who are equipped with commercial-grade products inaccessible to homeowners. The experts know how to apply the products and how often, and they’re trained in continual home monitoring. Instead of spending time researching options on your own, you can hire a pest control company with proven results.

Most pest control companies also offer free returns to remedy your pest issue.


Which Pest Control Company Is Right for You?

We believe serious pest issues are best left to the professionals. The top companies in the industry are Terminix, Orkin, Hawx, Ehrlich, and Aptive. Each one offers comprehensive pest control, decades of experience, and expert technicians.

Terminix values customer service highly, which is clear through its real-time online chat function. Orkin offers the most customer resources, helping to educate customers about what to expect from the process. Aptive offers customizable plans and tailors its pest management approach to specific pest control needs.

We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies to determine your best fit.


FAQs About Pest Control Companies

What does a pest control company do?

Pest control companies inspect your home, develop treatment plans, treat infestations, help protect against future infestations, and monitor your home. Pest control companies use top-of-the-line equipment and products and can make recommendations on how to ensure your home isn’t susceptible to an infestation.

What is included in pest control?

Pest control companies offer protection against different pests, depending on the plan you choose and the treatment you need. Most general pest control plans cover pests such as ants, roaches, mice, stinging insects, and earwigs. Other plans target mosquitoes, ticks, termites, and bed bugs. Pest control companies start with an inspection before developing a treatment plan and monitoring your home routinely in quarterly or bi-monthly intervals.

Is monthly pest control necessary?

It depends on the degree of your pest problem and concerns. Most pest control companies we’ve reviewed do not offer a monthly schedule. Quarterly visits are the most common, followed by bi-monthly.

How do pest control companies treat termites?

In general, pest control companies start off with a free termite inspection, carefully evaluating common access points, cracks, and crevices. Then, they’ll develop a tailored treatment plan to address your termite infestation, if you have one.

The specific treatment process varies from company to company. However, it usually involves liquid termiticides, fipronil or imidacloprid, and termite bait systems. In extreme cases, pest control companies will need to fumigate your home. Baiting works well for subterranean termites, whereas fumigation is most effective against drywood termites.

How long does it take for an exterminator to get rid of roaches?

It depends on how extreme the infestation is. In general, it should take your pest control specialist approximately two weeks to eradicate roaches. If a second treatment is needed, it might take longer.


Our Rating Methodology

The This Old House Reviews Team backs up our pest control recommendations with a detailed rating methodology that we use to objectively score each provider. We review pest control plans, navigate the provider website, speak with customer service representatives by phone and online chat (if available), request quotes, and analyze customer reviews for each provider. We then score the provider against our review standards for plans and services, reputation and customer responses, customer service offerings, workmanship guarantees, financing, and availability to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.