How much does pest control cost in the UK?

While the UK achieved a significant pest control victory by eradicating termites in Devon in 2021, homeowners across the country still face ongoing pest problems. These infestations, from London to Belfast, infamously result in hefty bills. 

Still, determining average pest control costs can be challenging due to varying factors like location and pest type. As such, this article aims to help you navigate these costs and select a reliable provider.

What are some common UK pests and their warning signs?

Numerous pests in the UK often appear in hundreds, if not thousands, of homes. Here’s a list of the most common unwanted critters.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches may appear if some spaces within your property are dark and damp, and they can eat pretty much anything you eat. This means they’ll produce faecal droppings in places where they hide. 

Cockroaches can also emit unpleasant, musty smells. It is crucial to take action as soon as you spot roaches, as a single female cockroach and her offspring can lead to more than 800 roaches infesting your property within a year.

Cockroaches infesting a dirty kitchen (Source: iStock)

Ants

Ants like damp and dark conditions, too, although you may spot some wandering about your kitchen in search of food. In addition to literal ant trails, mounds are a sign of an ongoing infestation near your home.

Bed bugs

Bed bugs are flat, oval-shaped insects up to 5 mm long, meaning you have a higher chance of waking up with red, itchy spots than seeing the perpetrator of these bites. Although they do not spread diseases, such insects are definitely annoying and can damage your skin and mattress because of their faecal matter or blood.

Rodents

Rodents such as rats and mice harm more than just your mattress. The size of a house mouse ranges from eight to 10 cm in body length, and a black rat can be twice as big.

Some signs of a rat infestation include: 

• 12 to 18 mm long droppings.

• Gnawing, scratching, and squeaking noises in the walls. 

• Pet dogs and cats are more excited than usual. 

Rodents can spread diseases such as E.coli, the plague, and salmonella. Rats and mice have been known to chew through electrical wires. If these get into your car, the damage can be anywhere from £1,500 to more than £5,000.

What are the average costs of pest control in the UK?

If you’re looking for pest control services, be aware that prices vary widely. Expect to pay more in major cities like London and Manchester than in less populated areas. This is due to the higher demand and the sheer number of older buildings, which are more susceptible to pest problems. 

Keep in mind that prices also vary between professionals, and while local providers may offer cheaper rates, don’t sacrifice quality for cost. Here’s a guide to average pest control prices:

What factors affect the costs of pest control?

Understanding the factors that determine pest control treatment costs can help you budget effectively. Here are the most significant ones:

Pest type 

Exterminator prices for cockroaches and ants are typically lower than that for bed bugs. This difference stems from the simpler treatment required for common pests, while bed bugs often necessitate extensive and expensive treatments due to their insecticide resistance.

A close-up of bed bugs infesting a mattress (Source: iStock)

You’ll likely find that wasp, bee, rodent, and bird pest control is budget-friendly, as simple solutions like nest removal and traps are often enough. Be sure to hire licensed professionals for protected animals like bats. Bat removal without a license can lead to fines and imprisonment.

Infestation level

The extent of the infestation directly impacts pest control charges. Multiple treatments may be necessary to completely eradicate pests and prevent future infestations from surviving insects.

Property size

Property size significantly impacts exterminator costs. Larger properties require more extensive treatment, including sealing entry points, resulting in higher expenses. Additionally, gardens increase the likelihood of dealing with pests like rats and aphids, potentially adding to the overall cost. External treatments, such as garlic or hot pepper spray, can help prevent their return.

Treatment method and frequency

Pest control fees fluctuate based on the chosen treatment methods and the frequency of application needed for long-term prevention. Some methods are inherently more expensive. Physical barriers and chemical treatments, for example, require professional installation and ongoing maintenance to remain effective, including expert refilling of chemical powders.

A pest control expert at work (Source: iStock)

Fumigation is a high-cost pest control method due to the need for sealing and poisonous gas. Other methods, like bird nest removal, are less expensive but require expertise to identify and block entry points. Wasp nest removal is also best handled by professionals to avoid stings. Biological control, using natural predators like ladybugs, is a more affordable option for garden pests.

Here’s a treatment cost list to help you gauge which method leads to an affordable price:

Labour fees

Labour costs and seasonal demand both influence pest control rates. Multiple treatments increase labour fees. Spring and summer see higher insect activity, while rats and roaches are more prevalent in colder months. Schedule treatments accordingly.

Additional services

When budgeting for pest control, remember to account for additional services.

• Addressing root causes might require hiring home cleaners or waste collectors. 

• Building inspectors can identify hidden damage and potential entry points. 

•  Expert plumbing repairs may be needed to eliminate damp conditions that attract pests.

Service urgency

Expect higher pest control fees for urgent situations. Disruptive pests requiring immediate action, such as emergency nest removals or rodent elimination, come at a premium compared to scheduled treatments. Quick barrier installations to prevent future issues also increase costs.

What are some ways to save on pest control?

Knowing how much is pest control can be a sobering experience, especially when dealing with termites. Some ways to make a dent in those figures include: 

• Maintaining a clean home to deter insects like ants.

• Sealing visible cracks to prevent unwanted entry of pests.

• Scheduling regular professional pest control. 

• Coordinating with neighbours for joint pest control. 

What should you look for in a pest control expert?

If you’re in the market for professional pest control services, know that businesses offering these need to obtain a Specified Certificate in the Use of Pesticides from the National Proficiency Tests Council. Technicians must also earn a Level 2 qualification; the course was developed jointly by the Royal Society for Public Health and the British Pest Control Association.

Keep your home pest-free with Airtasker

Don’t wait until it’s unbearable! If pests are invading your home, it’s time for action. Find reliable pest control services on Airtasker to solve the problem quickly. Whether it’s a sole rat scratching your walls or a full-blown termite infestation, finding the right solution doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply post a task on Airtasker and receive personalised quotes!