Pest control treatments

We do not recommend specific pesticides, products or application rates on this site. Pesticide use is regulated, the label is legally binding, and which products are registered and how they may be used varies by state. A licensed applicator makes that call for your situation. What we can do is explain the categories so you can read a quote.

Baits use a slow-acting active ingredient carried back to the colony. The EPA notes termite bait systems contain slow-acting insecticides such as diflubenzuron and hexaflumuron. Baits generally work over time, not overnight, which is a feature, not a failure.

Applied barriers place a treated zone in the soil around and under a structure. The EPA lists bifenthrin, imidacloprid and fipronil among common termiticide active ingredients. Wood treatments such as borates treat the material itself. Physical barriers and biological agents also exist; the EPA notes it does not regulate those.

Heat, steam and cold are non-chemical options used mainly for bed bugs. This Old House's 2026 pricing: insecticides $150-$400 per room, steam $250-$1,000 per room, freezing $300-$1,500, heat $400-$5,500, fumigation $2,000+. Whole-structure fumigation is the heaviest option, at $1,500-$8,000 per This Old House, and is used for severe termite and rat infestations.

How to choose

Ask for the product name and rate in writing

The EPA states reliable applicators can provide pesticide label copies showing application rates and precautions. Keep those with your records.

Ask about re-entry time before treatment day

The EPA advises checking label re-entry timelines. Plan around children, pets, food and anyone with respiratory conditions.

Match method to pest and to your constraints

Heat avoids residual chemicals but costs more; baits are lower-impact but slower. There's a legitimate trade-off here — ask the applicator to explain theirs.

Expect follow-up for bed bugs and termites

Neither is reliably a one-visit job. Get the number of included visits in the contract.

Report suspected misapplication

The EPA directs property owners to contact their state pesticide regulatory agency if a product is misapplied.