What are the average costs of pest control services?

Unwanted pests such as fleas, rodents, and cockroaches can cause trouble for homes and the people living in them. When DIY solutions and homemade remedies fall short, it's time to bring in the experts – professional pest control. But you might wonder, how much does pest control cost?

Don't worry, we've got you covered! We're here to offer a friendly and helpful breakdown of estimated costs for different types of pest control services, along with the factors that influence these prices. 

How much does pest control cost?

On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $100 and $150 for a standard pest control treatment. However, more extensive treatments or addressing severe infestations may cost $500 or more. The cost of pest control services can vary depending on factors such as the pest type, the infestation size, and the location. 

Different types of pests and their treatment costs

Pest removal costs depend on the creatures you want to eradicate. Here's a price list to guide you:

If you are looking for cheaper pest control services, you can also consult local councils. Depending on your location, the law requires some government bodies to control the pest population. Some councils also offer pest control prices that are lower than average rates.

Factors affecting pest control prices

Different things determine pest control prices in Australia, such as the following:

• Property size

Bigger homes require more time and chemicals for pest management, hence the higher costs. For example, internal and external sprays for a three-bedroom property cost around $150. This might reach up to $250 for a four-bedroom house.

• Pest type

Some pests are more difficult to kill. For example, if the pest belongs to a nearby colony, you have to pay for nest removal, which will increase costs. You can kill some insects, like ants, with a special solution. Depending on the infestation, you can solve the problem with one or two sprays.

• Treatment type

Pest removal includes different treatments: fumigation, biological elimination, chemical and physical barriers, and habitat destruction. One of the most effective but expensive methods is fumigation. However, this is not as popular in Australia.

• Infestation level

Severe infestation might require multiple treatments and resources, including time and money. So it's best to consult a pest control professional early to prevent critical infestation. Keep your house clean to avoid attracting pests.

• Visit frequency

Pest eradication can be done through single or multiple treatments. Of course, more visits entail higher costs. However, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you and your family are safe from harmful pests.

• Location

This affects pest control costs in Australia. Pest control in bigger cities is often 10% to 20% more expensive than in the suburbs. These cities are also more congested, leading to a higher rate of pest infestation. 

Here's a list of average pest control costs per area:

Pest control and removal options

Experts have different ways to control and remove pests. Before booking a service, a pest control professional can recommend the best method for your home. Whatever you choose, clean and organise your home beforehand. Get rid of your leftovers and dispose of your rubbish correctly.

• Physical and chemical barriers

Professionals usually put insecticides and chemicals in food to attract pests. Physical barriers work by trapping pests and then eliminating them.

• Biological elimination

This method works by taking advantage of the pest's natural predator. This way, you can remove or control household pests without feeling guilty about using harmful chemicals or deadly traps. However, it might not be as effective for larger-scale infestations.

• Habitat destruction

Pests need unique environments to survive and multiply in your home. Often, they thrive in damp, dirty, and warm areas hidden in plain sight or places you don't regularly clean. Removing their nests is a simple way to get rid of them. You can also burn them.

• Fumigation 

This works by filling your property with pesticide gas and then waiting for a couple of days to let it do its work. It is best used on cockroaches, bed bugs, moles, wood-boring beetles, and moths.

Although these methods sound easy, it's wise to leave them to professionals since a lack of experience might do more harm than good. Experts have the skills and equipment to remove pests effectively. They also know how to prevent pests from relocating to other areas of your property and causing further structural damage.

How to find a pest control expert

Are you ready to take the next step and hire a professional pest control service? Here are some pointers:

• Get multiple quotes from professionals to help you get a reasonable price.
• Read ratings and reviews and ask if they have a portfolio of previous work they can share with you.
• Perform a background check and ask if the pest control professional has licenses or certifications.

Getting rid of pests needn't be challenging! Whether you want to eradicate cockroaches or fleas or know more about commercial pest control costs, put up a task on Airtasker and get personalised pest control quotes!