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Similar to homes in other parts of the country, those in Michigan face threats from a host of unwanted guests, including ants, spiders, and rodents. Even larger animals like squirrels, skunks, and snakes can find their way into homes. Luckily, there are several top pest control companies serving the Great Lakes State. These companies have technicians trained to remove infestations and also provide preventive services to ensure rodents and pests never make it inside to begin with. Several are nationally known companies with certifications and well-established reputations. Ahead, homeowners can learn more about what to look for when hunting down the best pest control company in Michigan for their needs.
- BEST OVERALL: Orkin
- RUNNER-UP: Terminix
- BEST FOR PREVENTION: Ehrlich Pest Control
- BEST WILDLIFE CONTROL: Critter Control
- ALSO CONSIDER: Aptive Environmental
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Pest Control Company in Michigan for You
When shopping for a pest control company, understanding what certifications and services to look for is key to choosing the right one. Ahead, homeowners can learn more about these and other attributes of pest control companies.
Types of Pests Treated
Not all pest control companies in Michigan will handle all types of pests. While there are some companies that cover a broad range of unwanted visitors, others only specialize in particular subsets, like insects or wildlife. Some pest control companies also won’t treat homes for certain hard-to-remove pests, such as bed bugs and termites. So if a Detroit homeowner needs to get rid of bed bugs, they’ll specifically want to search for bed bug exterminators in Detroit.
Quote Process
The best pest control companies will take their clients through a quote process before scheduling service. Most companies require an in-person assessment before providing a quote for pest control, but homeowners may be able to get quotes for specific services online or over the phone. Pest control companies will consider the size of the home being treated and the yard, if it’s suspected that the outdoors requires treatment. Pest control companies may also base their quotes on the types of pests threatening the home. Customers will want to remember that the actual price of the service may exceed the quote depending on what the technician encounters when they perform the service.
Scheduling and Recurring Visits
Many pest control companies in Michigan, like those throughout the country, prefer to have their customers on a recurring treatment schedule. Preventive pest control treatments create a barrier to keep pests from entering the home, helping the client avoid treating regular infestations. Most pest control companies schedule preventive treatments on a quarterly basis and will often notify the customer by email or text message a few days ahead of time to let them know when the technician will be arriving. Customers dealing with an existing infestation will need to schedule a separate one-time treatment to eliminate the problem before moving to recurring preventive visits. Pest management companies often allow customers to schedule appointments online or by phone.
Insurance, Certifications, and Licensing
When choosing a professional pest control company, customers will want to look carefully at its certifications, insurance, and licensing. Top companies in the industry may have third-party certifications from organizations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). These certifications signify a high level of commitment to treatment and training standards. In addition to these certifications, customers will also want to make sure the company is properly insured and licensed. All pest control technicians in Michigan need to have a pesticide application business license.
Guarantees
Many pest control companies stand behind their work by offering some kind of guarantee. Many companies offer their customers a 30-day money-back guarantee if their pest problem persists after the treatment. Other companies don’t offer a money-back guarantee but will agree to return to the property for free additional treatments if the initial appointment does not resolve the issue. Companies that provide annual subscription-based pest services usually offer their customers free service calls in addition to regular quarterly visits in the event they spot a pest problem between treatments. Guarantees signal a company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and confidence in the work quality.
Customer Support
Being able to reach a pest control company in a timely fashion is important, as most customers will want to reach a professional for help as soon as they discover a pest problem. Pest control companies offer a variety of ways for their clients to get in touch with them. Most offer round-the-clock customer service via phone. A handful of services also have a live-chat feature that allows users to interact with a customer service representative online. Some companies also allow current customers to contact them via an email request form or even via text.
Our Top Picks
The list below includes some of the top pest control companies serving Michigan. It features companies with well-trained technicians, excellent reputations, and national certifications.
Best Overall
Orkin
Specs
- Types of pests treated: Insects, rodents, termites, bed bugs
- Scheduling: Online, phone
- Certifications: National Pest Management Association QualityPro, state and locally certified
- Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee
- Customer support: 24/7 by phone
Pros
- Technicians receive 160 hours of award-winning training
- National Pest Management Association QualityPro accreditation
- Technicians receive annual education from the CDC on pest-related diseases
Cons
- Customer support only available by phone
Why It Made the Cut: With its rigorous training for technicians and its long history in business, Orkin tops the list of pest control companies in the state of Michigan. How effective a pest control company is at keeping a home pest-free usually comes down to how knowledgeable its technicians are. That’s why Orkin ranks as the top pest control provider in Michigan. Not only does the company boast some 120 years in business with a solid reputation, but it also puts its technicians through a rigorous 160 hours of training before they can begin treating homes. Technicians also receive ongoing training and annual education through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In fact, the company is frequently recognized for the level of training it provides for its employees, and it holds a National Pest Management Association QualityPro accreditation. Orkin covers a broad range of pests that include insects, rodents, termites, and bed bugs. Customers can schedule service with just a phone call and can get same-day service if they call by noon.
Runner-Up
Terminix
Why It Made the Cut:
Affordable pricing, a broad range of services, and online resources make Terminix a great pest control option for Michiganders.
Terminix offers some of the most affordable rates of any pest control service in Michigan with its frequent discounts and promotions. Homeowners can save money by bundling its standard pest treatment and prevention services with its pest treatments for termites or mosquitoes. Terminix also offers related services designed to keep pests out, including attic insulation, gutter guards, and crawl space encapsulation.
Customers have the option to schedule service with Terminix via phone or online, though its online scheduling can be a bit confusing to use at first. Terminix has a robust website where customers can consult blog entries and articles written by professional entomologists to help them identify pests and take measures to prevent pests from invading their homes. The pest control company’s services cover a broad range of pests, including mosquitoes, rats, termites, bed bugs, millipedes, and even wildlife.
Specs
- Types of pests treated: Insects, rodents, termites, bed bugs
- Scheduling: Online, phone
- Certifications: State and locally certified
- Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee
- Customer support: 24/7 by phone and live chat
Pros
- Readily available discounts and promotions
- Additional home services include attic insulation, gutter guards, and crawl space encapsulation
- Comprehensive pest management resources and blog
Cons
- Online scheduling can be difficult
Best for Prevention
Ehrlich Pest Control
Specs
- Types of pests treated: Insects, rodents, termites, bed bugs
- Scheduling: Phone
- Certifications: National Pest Management Association GreenPro, state and locally certified
- Guarantee: Customer satisfaction guarantee
- Customer support: 24/7 by phone and live chat
Pros
- PestFree365+ plan treats and prevents 36 of the most common household pests year-round
- Additional services include moisture control and vegetation management
- National Pest Management Association GreenPro accreditation
Cons
- Online pricing tool is somewhat misleading
Why It Made the Cut: Ehrlich’s PestFree365+ plan is one of the best ways for Michiganders to control and prevent pest problems in their home. Ehrlich offers one of the most comprehensive protection plans for homes with its PestFree365+ plan. With this service, Ehrlich technicians will visit the customer’s home and develop a customized plan to provide protection from more than 36 different types of pests, including spiders, mice, cockroaches, ants, and fleas. Subscribers receive quarterly treatments, and Ehrlich will also make additional service calls free of charge if customers spot any pests in between treatments. In addition to providing pesticide treatments, Ehrlich also assists customers with prevention by helping them eliminate moisture and vegetation around the house that could attract pests. The company is also one of only a few pest control companies in the state to have a GreenPro accreditation from the National Pest Management Association, meaning it uses products that are more environmentally friendly. While the company has an online quote tool, it usually directs customers to schedule an appointment to receive a quote. Luckily, support is available 24/7 by phone and live chat for customers to schedule appointments or ask questions.
Best Wildlife Control
Critter Control
Specs
- Types of pests treated: Wildlife, rodents
- Scheduling: Phone
- Certifications: Certified wildlife specialists, state and locally certified
- Guarantee: Varies by location
- Customer support: Available by phone and live chat during business hours
Pros
- “Certified wildlife specialist” technicians
- Relatively wide variety of wildlife removed
- Limited lifetime warranty on exclusion or damage repairs
Cons
- Service hours and guarantees may vary by location
Why It Made the Cut: Critter Control employs trained technicians that can take on a broad range of vertebrate pests. Unlike other pest control companies that specialize mainly in insects, Critter Control tackles a broad range of vertebrates, including bats, skunks, squirrels, snakes, and rabbits—just to name a few. Since its technicians are certified wildlife specialists, they are well trained to handle these types of animals. In addition to offering some of the best wildlife removal services, Critter Control also repairs any damage and can seal exterior areas. These repairs come with a generous limited lifetime warranty. Prospective customers will want to carefully look at service hours and guarantees as they can vary by location. Clients can conveniently reach Critter Control by phone or live chat.
Also Consider
Aptive Environmental
Specs
- Types of pests treated: Insects, rodents
- Scheduling: Online, phone
- Certifications: Not specified
- Guarantee: Reservice guarantee
- Customer support: 24/7 by phone and live chat
Pros
- Straightforward online quote process and scheduling
- EPA Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program member
- Portion of company profits go to the United Nations Foundation’s United to Beat Malaria campaign to help stop the spread of malaria
Cons
- Limited information available online
- Termites and bed bugs not treated
Why It Made the Cut: For customers looking for an environmentally conscious approach to pest control, Aptive Environmental is one to consider. Pest control is not necessarily the most eco-friendly industry, but Aptive Environmental takes environmental responsibility seriously. The company is part of the EPA Pesticide Environmental Stewardship program, which means the company works to promote awareness of the risks of using pesticides to homeowners and the ecosystem. The company also donates a portion of its profits to the United Nations Foundation to help fight the spread of malaria in developing countries, which is something altruistic customers will appreciate. Customers can conveniently request a quote and schedule service all through the company’s streamlined web page. While Aptive’s services cover insects and rodents, they don’t treat termites or bed bugs. Customers can reach out 24/7 via phone or live chat to further inquire about Aptive’s service offerings if they can’t find an answer to their question online.
Our Verdict
With its intense technician training and education programs, more than 100 years of experience, and prestigious NPMA QualityPro certification, Orkin is the best all-around option for Michiganders looking for a pest control option. Those looking for affordable pricing and additional home services to pest-proof their home will want to consider Terminix, with its frequent discounts and additional services that include crawl space encapsulation and attic insulation.
How We Chose the Best Pest Control Companies in Michigan
In choosing the best pest control companies in Michigan, we considered a variety of factors. The companies on our list offer competitive rates and are willing to provide customers clear quotes for service. Since pest control needs vary, we chose companies that cover a wide variety of pests ranging from rodents to insects to larger wildlife. Quality of service is crucial when selecting a pest control service, so we chose brands with proven reputations in the business that take the time to properly train their service technicians. Keeping quality in mind, we also appreciated companies with third-party industry certifications.
Before You Hire the Best Pest Control Company in Michigan for You
There are few things to consider before bringing in a pest control company. First, a customer will want to decide what type of service they’re looking for. Customers can hire a pest control company for a one-time infestation removal or opt for recurring visits for pest prevention every few months. While these recurring services can cost upwards of $800 a year, they could ultimately save a customer thousands in removal and cleanup costs for an infestation.
It’s also important to be aware of what the pest control company’s services cover, especially for those planning to pay for a recurring service. Though a company may handle insects and rodents, it may not be able to help should a homeowner discover a termite problem or a raccoon that’s taken up residence in the crawl space.
Cost of Hiring the Best Pest Control Company in Michigan for You
How much a homeowner will pay for exterminator costs depends on several factors, including the type of pest they’re trying to evict from the home, the number of treatments they’re paying for, the degree of the infestation, and the size of the property. Some pests are more difficult to remove than others, and therefore may require more treatments. Removing significant infestations can cost a good deal more than treating smaller problems. It’s tempting to opt for the cheapest pest control company, but pest control is an industry in which the quality of service is paramount, and it may be worth paying a little extra to receive treatment from a reputable company.
Prices for exterminators in Detroit for a one-time visit are between $140 and $300, depending on the severity of the infestation. Those who select a recurring service that focuses on prevention can expect to pay between $370 and $1,100 per year for quarterly treatments, depending on the size of the home.
The Advantages of Using the Best Pest Control Company in Michigan for You
There are several benefits to hiring a pest control company. The best pest control companies use highly trained technicians who know how to treat a home to kill and drive away pests without presenting a hazard to residents, pets, or the environment. Pest control companies also have better success rates than DIY pest control solutions, meaning that customers will likely save money by hiring a pest control company one time than buying product after product from the home improvement store. And once any pests inside the home are gone, a pest control company can turn to preventive treatments to keep pests from returning. By hiring a pest control company to handle the home’s pest prevention, homeowners can focus on other items on the to-do list.
- Highly trained technicians safely and effectively treat homes.
- Pest control companies have higher success rates than DIY alternatives.
- Preventive treatments keep pests from getting inside the home.
- Hiring a pest control company means more time and less stress for homeowners.
FAQs
For those searching “pest control Detroit,” “rodent control Detroit,” or “Michigan pest control” who still have questions they need answered before hiring a service, here are some helpful answers and tips.
Q. Is professional pest control worth it?
While an annual pest control service costs hundreds of dollars a year, it can provide you peace of mind by helping to ensure you’ll never have to deal with the unpleasantness and potential danger of an infestation. Some customers may be allergic to pests such as bees or wasps, and it can be dangerous for them to try to handle treatment or removal. Customers in situations like these will want to specifically search for Michigan or Detroit wasp control.
Additionally, preventive pest control is often more affordable and more effective at keeping infestations at bay. And since professional pest control technicians are trained to work with pesticides, hiring a professional service is often a safer and more effective method of getting rid of pests than doing it yourself.
Q. What are some steps I can take on my own to prevent pests?
There are several things you can do to reduce the risk of pests in the home, according to the EPA. You can begin by minimizing access to food sources that may attract pests by placing tight lids on garbage containers and storing food in sealed containers. Many pests are drawn to water sources, so it’s wise to fix any plumbing leaks or remove standing water. Pests are also drawn to clutter where they can nest inside. Finally, you can close up any crevices or cracks where unwanted visitors can enter the home and hide.
Q. Do carpenter ants bite?
Yes. When carpenter ants feel threatened, they will bite as a form of defense. Since carpenter ants are large, their bites can break the skin. And since ants release a chemical called formic acid when they bite, the bites can be very painful.
Q. How long should I stay out of the house after pest control?
That depends on the type of pest control. Some treatments may not require you to leave the home at all, while others require you to be out of the house for several days. You’ll want to consult with the technician before the treatment so you know exactly what the guidelines are for pest control treatments inside your home.
Q. How often should a house be sprayed for pests?
Most pest control companies will treat your home four times a year in 3-month increments to protect your house from insects and rodents.
Q. What is the hardest pest to get rid of?
There are three pests that are notoriously difficult to remove. Termites embed themselves inside wood and move quickly away from light, making them difficult to find. Customers will want to hire one of the best termite control companies, like Terminix or Orkin, to handle these difficult-to-eradicate pests. Bed bugs are also fast-moving insects that only emerge in darkness, making them one of the harder pests to get rid of. And once cockroaches establish a nest inside your home, they are also very difficult to eliminate without the help of a professional.
Sources: Pest Extinct, CBS News