A pest control treatment plan is an effective way for owners of both homes and businesses to make sure their loved ones are safe from potential dangers from pests in the region. Our Reviews Team has researched and rated some of the best pest control companies in the country. In this roundup, we will cover six of the best pest control companies in Columbus and the surrounding Ohio area. Keep reading to learn about each company’s plans, services, and prices.

Top Pest Control Companies in Columbus

Best of the Best Columbus Pest Control Companies

Terminix takes our No. 1 spot due to its top-tier specialty pest solutions at affordable prices. It also has a record of great customer service reviews. Visit Terminix’s website or call 866-569-4035 to learn more. Orkin was named “Best for Urgent Service” thanks to its ability to provide same-day service to customers who call before 2 p.m. If you value a speedy response, visit Orkin online or call 877-868-1416 to get more details.

1. Terminix

With its 90 years of experience and knowledge, Terminix is a leader in the pest control industry. In addition to a basic plan that protects against more than a dozen common household pests, Terminix also offers specialty services like termite control and bed bug extermination. The company gets generally positive reviews from customers on sites like the Better Business Bureau and TrustPilot. And customers can speak to a representative easily using its online chat function. ✔ Serves 2.8 million residential and commercial pest control customers across the U.S. ✔ Free house inspection ✔ The Nix Pest Guarantee™ means Terminix will perform additional treatments at no additional cost if pests return between treatments Terminix’s general pest control plan starts with a free inspection, during which a technician will identify and treat your pest problem. Over the course of a year, a technician will return three more times to address seasonal issues. Terminix’s average cost for a yearly treatment plan runs between $550–$700. Service Areas: Ashley, Blacklick, Delaware, Dublin, Galena, Irwin, Lewis Center, Magnetic Springs, Marysville, Milford Center, Mingo, New Albany, Ostrander, Pataskala, Plain City, Powell, Radnor, Raymond, Sunbury, Unionville Center, Westerville, Columbus, Marion, Caledonia We encourage you to get a free estimate from Terminix by filling out this simple form or by calling the company at 866-569-4035.

2. Orkin

Orkin has been a household name in pest control for over a century. It strives to use cutting-edge technology, and its pest control specialists must undergo 160 hours of targeted training. We find Orkin’s same-day service option an impressive feature in the industry. Orkin also offers a 30-day money-back Guarantee. ✔ Technicians undergo a targeted 160-hour training before going out in the field ✔ If you call before 2 p.m. for service, then you receive service that same day ✔ Every customer receives a six-step plan, called Points of Service that technicians follow Orkin’s general pest control plan begins with a home inspection and includes many industry-standard pest services for more than 20 common pests. Orkin customers can also receive termite control and bed bug extermination. The average cost of an annual Orkin plan is $575 per year. Service Areas: Blacklick, Bucyrus, Canal Winchester, Circleville, Columbus, Delaware, Dublin, Galion, Galloway, Grove City, Heath, Hilliard, Lancaster, Lewis Center, Logan, London, Marion, Marysville, Mount Vernon, New Albany, Newark, Pataskala, Pickerington, Plain City, Powell, Reynoldsburg, Westerville We recommend that you complete this easy-to-use form to get a free quote from Orkin or speak to a representative at 877-544-4104.

3. Aptive

When it comes to customizable solutions, Aptive is one of the best pest control companies available. Although Aptive is relatively new to the pest control industry, it’s already earned a few accolades and is ranked as one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s Best Companies in America. ✔ Is a member of the EPA’s Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program ✔ Ranked as one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s Best Companies in America ✔ Technicians will address any pest issues between scheduled visits at no extra charge to the customer Aptive’s customized quarterly service plan, called the Four-Seasons Protection Plan, includes an inspection and four tailored seasonal treatments. Aptive does not treat termites or bed bugs. Aptive’s year-long treatment plan costs about $560–$620 per year. Service Areas: We were unable to confirm precise service areas in the Columbus area. Contact Aptive to see if service is available in your ZIP code.

4. Moxie Pest Control - Columbus

Moxie Pest Control is a solid choice for a local pest control company. The company offers industry-standard pest services, while also offering services specific for the Columbus area. And all packages come with a re-service guarantee if pests reappear between visits. Moxie’s general pest package includes treatments for ants, fleas, cockroaches, silverfish, firebrats, ticks, pill bugs, slugs, wasps, and spiders. Moxie customers can receive add-on services for bed bugs, moles, gophers, and voles. Quotes not available through This Old House.

5. Ohio Exterminating Company

The Ohio Exterminating Company has assisted Ohioans with commercial and residential pest control services for 85 years. Customers can also find free resources on the company’s website to learn more about pests in the region. Ohio Exterminating Company offers as-needed service, a seasonal plan, and quarterly plan, and a total protection plan.The company also offers specialty services for bed bugs, termites, and mosquitoes. Quotes not available through This Old House.

6. Plunkett’s Pest Control

Plunkett’s Pest Control is another quality pest control company locally for both homes and businesses. Plunkett can help with typical pests issues, such as bed bugs, mosquitoes, gophers, spiders, wasps, and more. Its treatment process starts with an on-staff entomologist who will identify the bug specimens in your home. One potentially cost-saving option from Plunkett is its DIY assistance. Plunkett provides professional supplies and advice, then you do it all yourself. Plunkett also offers a complete spring and fall plan. Quotes not available through This Old House.

Our Recommendation

All six companies above are excellent options for pest solutions in the Columbus area. Our Reviews Team recommends Terminix, Orkin, and Aptive as the top-rated companies in the industry. All three offer a re-service guarantee, a promise to return to your home if you see any pests between scheduled appointments to re-treat at no extra cost. Orkin and Terminix even offer to refund your last treatment if you aren’t 100% satisfied. Get a free estimate from all three providers below.

Common Pests in Columbus

Columbus sees many different types of pests. These pests can range from annoying flies and squirrels to more dangerous pests like venomous spiders. Some, like termites and carpenter ants, can cause structural damage to your home. Read over some of the most common pests in Columbus here.

Ants—Many types of ants are present in Columbus. One common species, the carpenter ant, builds its nests inside wood, discarding sawdust-like shavings and potentially causing structural damage to your home. Bed bugs—Bed bugs are found throughout the country but are prevalent in heavily populated areas. They can quickly infest your bedroom and other areas of your house if left untreated. Professional treatment is highly recommended for these bugs. Cockroaches—These pests can enter your home through very small cracks and contaminate food. They can possibly spread diseases like salmonella. Flies—Some flies found throughout Columbus may carry diseases. Gophers—These burrowing mammals might cause problems for your home. They can cause damage to utility cables, water lines, sprinkler systems, and irrigation pipes. Spiders—While many spiders are harmless, some spiders found in the Columbus area, such as the brown recluse and black widow, can require emergency medical treatment. Stinging Insects—Stinging insects, like hornets, are found throughout Ohio. Carpenter bees, like carpenter ants and termites, can cause damage to the wooden structures of your home. Termites—These little white bugs can do big damage. Termites are wood-eaters whose damage can set homeowners back thousands of dollars in repairs.

Why You Should Hire Exterminators in Columbus

Though many pests are not dangerous, some may cause structural damage to your home, contaminate food and spread diseases, or pose other health risks. It is a good idea to invest in a pest control plan to give yourself peace of mind that your family, friends, and home are all protected. Additionally, different kinds of pests need specific kinds of treatment. Trying to tackle multiple pest problems on your own can be both costly and time-consuming. A pest control plan performed by a licensed and insured technician will know the best remedy for each and can ensure all your pest problems are managed on a routine schedule.

How to Choose Pest Control in Columbus

There are some major points to think about before picking a pest control company. Read over some of the most important factors to know and consider before you commit to a company here.

Type of pests—Each company offers different general pest control plans based on both the number and specific types of pests covered. If you already know what pests are causing problems, make sure that the pest control company you hire works against those types of pests. But keep in mind other pest problems may develop over time. Cost—It is a good idea to get free quotes from each company to learn how they charge for different factors, such as the length of a plan or the size of your home. Some companies are more expensive than others but offer more coverage and unique services. If you’d like to save some money, you may consider a more bare-bones plan. Reputation—Reading about a company from expert reviews can help give you a sense of whether a company is reliable, competent, and trustworthy. Customer reviews from sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and TrustPilot can help give you a realistic outlook, too. Plan schedules—Not all plans are offered on the same schedule. We generally recommend a quarterly pest management plan, but you can also find plans that are offered monthly, bi-monthly, or single service. Guarantees— Check to see if the company offers guarantees, as it is a sign of good the company stands behind their work.

Pest Control Company Methodology

The This Old House Reviews team is committed to providing unbiased and comprehensive reviews for our readers. This means earning your trust through transparency and having the data to back up our ratings and recommendations. With that in mind, we spent time creating an objective rating system to score each best pest control company. Here’s what that review process looks like:

We contact every pest control company via phone and online chat (if available), talking to representatives. We get quotes, ask questions, and fully understand each company’s pest control plans. We test the customer service, including factors such as wait times, friendliness, and problem-solving ability. We check and update all of the data and metrics on the companies on a regular basis to ensure we have the most current and accurate information.

With all of that data, we created a rating system to score each pest control company. Our rating system is a weighted, 100-point scale on the following factors:

Plan options (35): Every home and every pest problem has its specific needs when it comes to prevention and remediation. Companies with multiple plans and service offerings were given higher scores than those without. State Availability (5): Where you live determines which providers are available. Companies available in more states were rated higher than those with less. Trustworthiness (15): We consider companies that offer service guarantees and others more trustworthy and therefore scored them higher. Customer Service (35): This factor is based on our own research from calling providers, as well as their availability and guarantees for responses. Additional Benefits (10): Companies who offer things like information about the products they use, have an app for customers, and other benefits were given higher ratings.

What are house spiders attracted to? All spiders are drawn to the same three basic things: food, water, and shelter. Some spiders are attracted to moisture and will take shelter in damp areas of your house like the basement or crawl spaces. Some spiders prefer more dry areas like air vents and attics. What attracts gophers to your yard? Gophers feed on the roots and underground stems of grass, flowers, vegetables, shrubs, and trees. They are drawn to moist, cool dirt, and the healthier your lawn, the better the chance of attracting moles. What is IPM? Integrated pest management, or IPM, is a process you can use to solve pest problems while minimizing risks to people and the environment. There are primarily four types of pest control that you can expect a pest control company to utilize when dealing with pest problems. They are:

Physical methods: These use natural barriers like nets or plastic sheets Chemical methods: These involve the use of chemical treatments such as fumigation, though there are also fermented and naturally-derived chemicals Electronic methods: These include using electromagnetic gadgets to repel mice, rodents, and some insects. Ultrasonic devices may also be used to emit high frequency soundwaves that affect small vermin species. Biological methods: These involve the use of living organisms, such as parasites, plant pathogens, and predators to eliminate pests

What’s the difference between pest control and extermination?
Extermination refers to the use of pesticides and other tactics that end in the death of pests. Pest control refers more so to the practice of preventing pest infestations in the first place. To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.