For a typical home, professional pest control can cost anywhere from around $100 to a few hundred dollars per visit, depending on the specific needs. Many companies (including Interstate Pest Management) also offer maintenance plans that might average around $40 to $60 per month for year-round protection, which often ends up being more cost-effective over time. The actual price varies because every situation is slightly different: it depends on the size of your home, the type of pests being treated (dealing with a few ants is less expensive than eradicating a large termite issue, for example), the severity of the infestation, and the treatment methods used. It’s best to have an inspection so a technician can provide you with a firm quote tailored to your home’s specific needs. Keep in mind, effective pest control not only removes current pests but also helps prevent future problems – which can save you money in the long run by avoiding damage or bigger infestations.

You can certainly tackle some minor pest issues on your own, especially if you’re the handy type. Many homeowners successfully set out mouse traps, spray store-bought ant and wasp sprays, or use DIY remedies like diatomaceous earth for insects. Keeping your home clean, sealing cracks, and removing standing water are all effective do-it-yourself preventive measures as well. That said, it’s important to know when a problem is beyond a simple DIY fix. Large or persistent infestations (like a big colony of termites in the walls, a bed bug invasion, or a hidden nest of carpenter ants) can be very difficult to eliminate without professional equipment and expertise. Misusing over-the-counter pesticides can also pose risks to your family or pets. A good rule of thumb: if you’ve tried basic measures and pests keep coming back, or if the pest is potentially dangerous (such as wasps or venomous spiders), it’s time to call a professional. Pest control experts have training and specialized tools to eradicate the issue safely and permanently. In short, start with DIY for small problems, but don’t hesitate to get help when pests get out of hand or refuse to go away despite your efforts.

When you have children or pets at home, safety is the top priority – and fortunately, there are pest control approaches designed with that in mind. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is one strategy we emphasize, which focuses on non-chemical and preventative measures first (like sealing entry points, removing food and water sources, and using physical traps or barriers). If we do need to apply products, we opt for the least-toxic solutions that will still be effective. For example, gel baits for ants or enclosed bait stations for rodents can be placed in out-of-reach areas instead of broadly spraying liquids in living spaces. Many modern pesticides are also formulated to be low in toxicity to people and pets while still tough on pests. As professionals, we target treatments to cracks, crevices, and the exterior perimeter of your home, minimizing any exposure in the areas where your family and pets spend time. Always let your pest control provider know about your kids and pets – a good company will tailor their service to use child-safe and pet-friendly methods, giving you a pest-free home without compromising on safety.

During a pest control visit, the technician does a lot more than just “spray for bugs.” First, they’ll typically talk with you about what you’ve been experiencing and then perform a thorough inspection of your property. They’ll look for signs of pests (such as droppings, nesting material, damage to wood or wiring, or entry holes) and identify the type of critters causing the issue. Based on their findings, the technician will carry out targeted treatments. This could include applying a safe insecticide around the baseboards, in cracks and crevices, and along the outside foundation to control insects; setting up baits or traps for pests such as ants, cockroaches, or rodents; or removing wasp nests or spider webs from around eaves. They work strategically, focusing on the areas where pests are active or likely to enter, rather than just spraying everything in sight. After treating, a good tech will also communicate with you about what they did and what they found. They’ll point out any conditions that might be attracting pests (for instance, a gap under a door or standing water by the foundation) and give you tips on preventing future problems. Essentially, the visit is part detective work, part treatment, and part education – all aimed at keeping your home pest-free.

Choosing a pest control provider is an important decision – you want someone knowledgeable, trustworthy, and effective. Here are a few tips to find the best fit:

• Check credentials: Make sure the company is licensed in your state and that their technicians are certified. This ensures they’re trained in the proper and safe use of pesticides.
• Experience and expertise: Look for a company with a proven track record, especially with the specific pest issues common in your area. A local company that knows Pacific Northwest pests (ants, spiders, rodents, etc.) will often address problems more effectively.
• Read reviews or get referrals: See what other homeowners say. Consistent positive feedback or a strong word-of-mouth recommendation from a neighbor or friend is a great sign.
• Ask about their approach: The best companies will inspect first and use targeted, integrated pest management techniques – not just blanket-spray chemicals everywhere. If you have particular concerns (say, you prefer eco-friendly solutions or you need child- and pet-safe treatments), ask if they offer those options.
• Understand the service terms: Inquire about what’s included in the service. Do they offer a guarantee or free re-treatments if pests come back between visits? Will you be locked into a contract, or can you get service as needed? Understanding these details will help you compare providers.

By doing a bit of homework on these points, you’ll be able to choose a pest control company that you feel comfortable with and that can keep your home safe and pest-free.

Oregon and Washington’s famous rainy seasons do tend to flush more pests into homes. When it gets wet outside (typically fall through spring), a lot of bugs and rodents seek drier shelter – and our cozy houses make a tempting refuge. For example, you might notice more ants suddenly showing up in your kitchen after heavy rains; their underground nests can get flooded, driving them indoors. Spiders and centipedes also often slip inside during wet, cool weather as they hunt for prey or escape saturated soil. And of course, rodents like mice will head indoors to get out of the soggy cold. While pests are a year-round issue in the Pacific Northwest, it’s fair to say the rainy season can spark more indoor invasions. This is why many local residents maintain year-round pest control plans – to guard against those seasonal spikes when the rainy climate sends critters scurrying inside.