Find the Best Pest Control & Exterminators in San Diego, CA

Getting pest control in San Diego

San Diego is home to a wide variety of pests. While some might just be inconveniences, others can cause structural damage to your home and even health problems.

The most common pests in San Diego include:

• Termites
• Ants
• Rodents
• Cockroaches
• Fleas

Coastal communities like San Diego have particularly high instances of western drywood termites. Around 60 to 80 percent of homes in Southern California are or will be infested with termites, including recently built structures. These pests can cause major damage to your home that requires expensive repairs, so it’s best to be proactive in eliminating them.

Pest control companies often offer free initial inspections for termites. Treatment for each termite infestation is customized on a case-by-case basis depending on location, home size and other factors.

Termites aren’t the only pests to watch for, however. Black widow spiders and scorpions are native to the Southwest and can pose a significant danger when found in your home. Some companies exclude these harmful pests from their treatments, so be clear on your problem if you need them eradicated.

While most people think of pest control companies when they have insect problems, the companies can also handle animals such as gophers, which commonly affect properties in San Diego. Pest control companies may also be able to handle raccoons, opossums and skunks, but be sure to ask if the company holds the correct state-issued licenses or partners with contractors that have proper certification to handle wildlife.

Other pests that may be prevalent in San Diego include bedbugs, which thrive in areas such as apartment buildings or campus housing at San Diego’s many universities. Rural towns in East County are more likely to see scorpions and fire ants.

Pest control can be expensive, so be sure you’re dealing with a reputable company. The University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management program offers guidelines on working with pest control companies, but you’ll want to:

Most companies offer telephone consultations for common pests like rodents and ants. A customer service agent should prepare a written estimate for you to consider and use for comparison. Some companies also offer free online quotes. If you plan on scheduling regular pest treatment, be sure you understand which pests are included and how often the exterminator will visit.

Costs for pest control can vary depending on the type of pest and severity of infestation. One-time treatments for termites range in price from $65-$900, depending on the location and size of the area to be treated. Tenting for termites begins at about $1,300. Spot treatments for common bugs start at $195-$250, and quarterly treatments for common pests, including ants, rodents and spiders, start at $95 every three months, with a higher fee for the initial visit and inspection. Most companies offer one-time, monthly, bimonthly or quarterly options.

Pest control companies typically guarantee treatments for a certain period of time. Most exterminators will return free of charge for emergency retreatment between regularly scheduled contracted service calls.