When you have a pest problem in your home, your main concern is getting rid of it quickly, safely, and permanently. Should you try and take care of it yourself or hire someone to do it? Lots of factors go into this decision. Here are the pros and cons to DIY vs professional pest control to help you make the best decision for your situation.

• Expertise: Properly identifying the pest you have in your home is the most important step in eliminating it. Treatments vary even between different species of the same creature. DIY pest control products have warning labels and instructions that make them fairly easy to use. Professionals, on the other hand, have training and experience that allow them to provide the most current treatment options that may not be on the market for homeowners yet. They also know the ins and outs of each type of pest, as well as where they may be hiding and how best to treat them.
• Price: This might be one of the most important factors when it comes to pest control. Your budget will drive the majority of your decisions. DIY products generally are less expensive than professional services but can actually end up costing you more. DIYs are usually designed for use on existing pest problems and not as a preventative. By that point, however, the infestation is most likely already established in your home and the potential cost for extensive treatments and damage repairs can be significant. Professional treatments are typically more expensive initially, but can save you enormously by preventing costly infestations before they can become established.
• Flexibility: DIYs are going to be more convenient than professional treatments as they are more readily available – you just drive to your local store, purchase them, and use them same day. Professional companies must coordinate their schedules with the consumers’ schedules and will often require you to be home while they inspect.
• Safety: Any chemicals can pose a hazard to humans and animals. DIY products often contain chemicals you may not be familiar with using. This can greatly increase the potential for hazards to you and your family. Professional treatments can utilize chemicals but the technicians are familiar with their use and applications and can apply them with the utmost safety protocols. There are also green pest control treatments available that are eco, pet, and child friendly.
• Effectiveness: The goal of any pest control treatment, whether its do-it-yourself or professional, if for it to be effective. DIY treatments are usually done once a pest issue has been recognized; they aren’t usually designed for preventative purposes. These treatments are very effective on small pest problems but not so much for larger issues. Pests can also become resistant to the chemicals in these treatment products. Professional pest control products contain the most current ingredients and follow the most up-to-date techniques. They can also be used for pest prevention rather than spot treatments.

Whether you try a do-it-yourself approach to pest control or call in the pros is a personal decision. If you have a pest problem that you feel needs professional attention contact a licensed pest control company who can thoroughly inspect your home and provide you with a comprehensive treatment and prevention plan.