Houston pest control questions, answered
General
How much does termite treatment cost in Houston?
Most homes run about $1,000 to $2,500 for a liquid barrier and about $1,500 to $3,500 for a bait system, depending on the size of the house. You get the exact price in writing after the free inspection.
Is the spray safe for my kids and dogs?
Yes, when you follow the dry time. Keep pets and kids off treated areas until the spray is dry, usually 2 to 3 hours. We leave a Consumer Information Sheet at every home.
How often do I need pest control in Houston?
Most homes do best with service every 2 or 3 months because warm, wet weather keeps bugs active almost all year. Mosquito spray is monthly from April to October.
Who licenses pest control companies in Texas?
The Texas Department of Agriculture Structural Pest Control Service licenses the company and every technician. Ask any company for its license number before you hire it.
Do I need a termite inspection every year?
Yes, once a year is smart in Houston. Subterranean and Formosan termites are common here, and a yearly inspection catches them before the damage gets big.
General pest control
How often do I need pest control in Houston?
Most homes do well with service every one to three months. Quarterly is common. Homes near greenbelts or bayous may need service more often.
Is it safe for kids and pets?
Products are used by label. We tell you when it is safe to re-enter treated areas and give you a Consumer Information Sheet.
Do you cover the inside?
Yes, on request. Many plans include interior service if you see pests.
What if bugs come back?
We re-service for free between scheduled visits.
Termite inspection and treatment
How much does termite treatment cost in Houston?
Most treatments run roughly $900 to $3,500, depending on home size and method. Get a written estimate with the graph and label.
Do I need a termite inspection every year?
Yes, in Houston it is a good idea. Many warranties require yearly inspections.
Do I need to leave home during treatment?
Usually not. Ask the technician about drilling or product timing.
What is a termite warranty?
A written promise that the company will retreat if termites return, within the terms and time period.
Mosquito control
When should I start mosquito control?
Start in spring, around April, before the first big hatch.
Is the spray safe for pets?
Follow the label. We tell you when it is safe to go back outside.
Does it work after rain?
Rain can reduce results. We include a re-spray after heavy rain in our season plan.
Can I stop standing water myself?
Yes. Dump water weekly from pots, toys and buckets.
Rodent control
How long does it take to clear rodents?
Often two to four weeks, depending on the number of animals and how many entry points are found.
Do you use poison?
We use traps and sealing first, and use bait only when label rules allow. We tell you what is used.
Will you seal the holes?
Yes, that is the key to a lasting fix.
Is attic cleanup included?
Cleanup is quoted separately.
Fire ants
Why do fire ants return after rain?
Rain floods nests and the colony moves, creating new mounds. A barrier treatment helps.
Is it safe for pets?
Follow the label. We tell you when to keep pets off.
Can I do it myself?
Store baits can help, but a professional barrier lasts longer.
How fast does it work?
Baits can take one to two weeks to clear a colony.
Wasps and bees
Should I remove a nest myself?
Not if it is high, large or you are allergic. A professional has gear and products for the job.
Do you remove honey bees?
We treat wasps and refer honey bee hives to a beekeeper when possible.
Will they come back?
They can. We remove nests and give tips to keep them away.
Do you work in the evening?
Often yes, since wasps are calmer at night.
Cost
Is a pest control plan worth it?
In Houston, many people find regular exterior service cheaper than repeat emergency calls.
Are termite inspections free?
Many companies inspect for free when you want a quote. Ask first.
Why is the first visit more expensive?
The first visit often includes a deeper treatment and setup.
Do prices change by season?
Mosquito and fire ant work peaks in warm months, and termite swarm season is spring.