Find the Best Pest Control in Baltimore, MD

How to choose a pest control company in Baltimore

To select a pest control company in Baltimore, look for providers with experience treating the pests you have. Then, check customer reviews, compare price quotes and ask about guarantees. Finally, consider the following factors to differentiate between qualified pest control companies:

• Licensing and insurance: Baltimore pest control technicians must pass a test and hold a license issued by the Maryland Department of Agriculture. They must then renew their licenses every year. Exterminators are also required to carry general liability insurance, and it’s recommended they have pollution insurance, too. For termite control, companies should have repair work insurance. Ask the technician for a copy of their license and insurance policies before they work on your home.
• Accreditation: The National Pest Management Association is an industry group that sets quality standards and provides education and guidance for qualifying members. Reputable exterminators strive to meet these standards and belong to the NPMA. Pest control companies that belong to the Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program use integrated pest management to reduce risks from pesticides in the environment.
• Use of Integrated Pest Management: IPM is an approach to pest management that incorporates scientific principles with a logical progression of treatments based on the pest’s biology. IPM starts with the least toxic treatment first. This means removing factors that might attract pests before choosing to apply pesticides and other treatments. Practitioners then monitor and adjust the treatment over time, depending on how a pest responds. IPM is important because it attempts to use less pesticide and encourages changes in human behavior that can exacerbate pest problems.

How much is an exterminator in Baltimore?

Pest control prices in Baltimore depend on the type of pest, the size of the infested area and whether or not you want recurring or one-time treatment:

• Bed bug infestation: The average cost to treat a bed bug infestation with a single follow-up visit is $200 to $400 per room.
• Rat infestation: Rodent control typically costs $200 to $500 for a single treatment and follow up. Ongoing rodent control services for Baltimore residences start at about $30 per month.
• Fly or gnat infestation: Getting rid of a fly or gnat infestation with a one-time treatment costs an average of $300 to $500. For recurring services, expect to pay at least $30 per month.
• Flea infestation: Fleas are typically recurring pests. Getting rid of them with ongoing treatments starts at $30 per month.

A pest control technician should give you a written estimate when on-site to perform an inspection.

Baltimore pest control FAQ

How does pest control work?

When you call a pest control company, it typically schedules a site visit to determine what pests you have and estimate the cost for your treatment plan. Some pest problems can be fixed with one treatment, but recurring service involves a technician regularly coming to your property to apply pesticides, check traps and perform any needed maintenance.

Do landlords have to pay for bed bug removal in Baltimore?

Landlords are required to disclose known infestations and remove bed bugs before new tenants move in. However, some Baltimore landlords add a clause to their rental agreements that requires tenants to pay for bed bug removal if the infestation happens after they move in. Maryland landlord-tenant law says that, in multifamily units, the landlord is still responsible for bed bug removal unless the infestation is caused by the tenant’s failure to comply with applicable policies. For single-family rentals though, the tenant generally must pay for bed bug removal, unless the landlord knew about the infestation and didn't disclose it before move-in.

Can bed bugs travel through apartment walls?

Bed bugs can crawl through small cracks in apartment walls, but they typically spread through apartment buildings by hitching a ride on clothing, bedding, furniture, luggage or bags.

What can cause an ant infestation?

Leaving food out can cause an ant infestation, especially if you leave out sweets. Ants also look for shelter in particularly hot, dry or wet weather.

How do you know if you have termites?

If you have termites, you might hear a clicking sound in your walls or notice wood-colored droppings that look like salt and pepper around the house. Also, look for sagging drywall, crumbling wood, peeling paint, buckling floors, loose tiles and wood that makes a hollow sound when tapped. Termite damage can resemble tiny tunnels in wooden parts of your home.

Who regulates pest control companies in Maryland?

The Maryland Department of Agriculture regulates pest control companies and issues licenses for technicians.