Once you’ve narrowed down to a short list — for example by using Pest Select to browse pest control companies by state — these are the questions worth asking before any quote becomes a commitment.
Services offered
- Which pests are covered under the quote you’re giving me?
- Are there pests you don’t treat or refer out?
- Do you handle commercial properties as well as residential?
- Do you offer specialty work — see if their termite treatment, rodent control, or bed bug services match what you actually need?
If your situation is commercial, ask whether the company has relevant experience — commercial pest control for restaurants, multifamily, and healthcare often involves different documentation and scheduling than residential work.
Treatment plan
- What products and methods will be used?
- Where will treatment happen — interior, exterior, both?
- How long will the visit take?
- What outcome should I expect after the first visit?
Follow-up visits
- How many follow-up visits are included?
- What triggers a follow-up — time, recurrence, both?
- Are follow-ups billed separately if needed beyond the initial scope?
See the breakdown of one-time vs ongoing service plans for context on which makes sense.
Warranty language
- Is there a warranty or service guarantee, and is it in writing?
- What does it cover, and for how long?
- What voids it — missed payments, missed follow-ups, structural changes?
A guarantee that isn’t in writing is marketing, not a warranty. Get the conditions documented.
Emergency availability
- Do you offer same-day or after-hours service?
- Is there a different rate for emergency calls?
- How fast can a technician usually respond?
Preparation steps
- What do I need to do before the technician arrives?
- How long should people and pets stay out of treated areas?
- Will any items need to be moved, washed, or bagged?
A good company gives you preparation instructions in writing. Verbal-only prep instructions are easy to misremember and a common source of disputes after a visit.
Pricing clarity
- What is the total cost, including taxes and any fees?
- Is the inspection charged separately?
- Are there setup, trip, or fuel fees?
- Are follow-ups included in the headline price?
For the bigger picture on what drives a quote, see the guide on pest control cost.
Contract terms
- Is this a single visit or an ongoing contract?
- How long is the contract term?
- Is there an early-cancellation fee?
- Does the contract auto-renew?
Ongoing service plans are often more cost-effective per visit, but only if the contract length and cancellation terms match what you actually need.
What is included in the service
- Initial inspection: included or extra?
- Specific pests covered vs. excluded.
- Interior, exterior, attic, crawl space — which is in scope?
- Any exclusion work (sealing entry points) included?
- Re-treatment policy if the issue persists.
If something feels off during the conversation, see the guide on red flags when choosing a company. And if a listing on Pest Select needs a correction, you can contact Pest Select.