Mosquitoes rank among the most despised pests, disrupting outdoor comfort and prompting homeowners to seek professional control solutions. To get rid of mosquitoes, you must deal with them inside and outside your house. This guide to the best mosquito control companies highlights the pros with the most knowledgeable technicians with the most comprehensive approaches to these pesky biting pests.
Our picks
Mosquito Authority: Best mosquito control company
Arrow Exterminators: Best for wildlife control
Ehrlich Pest Control: Best comprehensive pest control
Truly Nolen: Best rodent control
Orkin: Best for experienced technicians
Viking Pest Control: Best for customer satisfaction
Terminix: Best for convenience
Mosquito Authority: Best mosquito control company
Star rating: 3.5 out of 5
Average cost: $79 per treatment (every 21 days) *
Control methods: Misting system with professional-grade products and natural control alternatives
Effectiveness guarantee: Yes
Why we picked Mosquito Authority
Mosquito Authority is our top pick for mosquito treatment due to its comprehensive approach and commitment to customer satisfaction. With an array of all-natural solutions and specialized services, its hands-on experience also revealed consistent effectiveness and professionalism.
Though Mosquito Authority offers a range of effective solutions, its services may be more expensive than competitors.
Who should use Mosquito Authority
Homeowners seeking the best mosquito control services that are environmentally friendly and tailored to their specific needs will benefit most from Mosquito Authority’s services.
Pros and cons of Mosquito Authority
Pros
- Comprehensive approach
- All-natural solutions
- Professionalism and reliability
Cons
- Potential higher cost than other companies
- Limited availability
- Scheduling system a little difficult to work with
* The CNN Underscored team requested quotes from all providers in February 2024 for a 2,000-square-foot home in Richmond. Va.?
Arrow Exterminators: Best for wildlife control
Star rating: 4.1 out of 5
Average cost: $660 per year
Control methods: Integrated pest management (IPM - eliminate standing water, food, shelter), STEPS Total Protection Systems (limited pesticide use via targeted application)
Effectiveness guarantee?: Yes
Why we picked Arrow Exterminators
Though Arrow Exterminators specializes in handling various wildlife issues, the company is also a solid provider of mosquito control. Its seasonal mosquito control service, applied monthly, uses a plant-friendly process to target mosquito-prone surfaces. A 100% guarantee backs all its pest control services. Our review of Arrow Exterminators revealed prompt and professional service backed by a team of knowledgeable technicians who prioritize customer needs.
The only downsides are that its services aren’t widely accessible, and its environmental claims lack transparency.
Who should use Arrow Exterminators
Homeowners dealing with mosquitoes and wildlife infestations, including rodents, birds and larger animals, will benefit most from Arrow Exterminators’ specialized services and expertise.
Pros and cons of Arrow Exterminators
Pros
- Comprehensive wildlife control services
- Prompt and professional service
- Customer satisfaction guarantee
Cons
- Potential higher cost vs. other companies
- Limited availability
- Lack of transparency regarding environmentally-friendly claims
Ehrlich Pest Control: Best for comprehensive pest control
Star rating: 4.1 out of 5
Average cost: $1,005 per year
Control methods: Barrier treatment using EPA-registered products?
Effectiveness guarantee?: Yes
Why we picked Ehrlich Pest Control
Ehrlich Pest Control’s thorough approach and unwavering commitment to quality treatment earn it a spot on this list. Offering a wide range of solutions for various pest issues, Ehlrich also excels in mosquito treatment.
Ehrlich begins with a thorough yard inspection by a skilled technician to locate mosquito and tick hotspots. Using EPA-registered products, it applies barrier treatments to key mosquito resting areas like perimeter vegetation, shrubs and ground cover. Ehrlich offers advice on eliminating breeding sites. Tailoring treatments to individual needs, it offers single or monthly service plans for ongoing protection and suggests bundling with its PestFree365+ program for maximum savings and comprehensive pest control.
Ehrlich Pest Control excels in comprehensive treatments, but potential drawbacks include communication delays and limited service availability in certain locations.
Who should use Ehrlich Pest Control
Homeowners seeking comprehensive pest control solutions customized to their specific pest issues will find Ehrlich Pest Control’s services most beneficial.
Pros and cons of Ehrlich Pest Control
Pros
- Integrated pest management approach methods
- Wide range of effective solutions offered
- Polite and knowledgeable technicians
Cons
- Potential communication delays
- Limited availability
- Some issues with treatment reminder notifications not being received
Truly Nolen: Best rodent control
Star rating: 3.8 out of 5
Average cost: $550 to $1,000 per year (Four Seasons quarterly pest control)?
Control methods: Integrated pest management (IPM), mosquito dunks (creates a film over standing water), pyrethrum-based spray (derived from chrysanthemums))
Effectiveness guarantee?: Yes
Why we picked Truly Nolen
Truly Nolen’s services consistently demonstrate its commitment to excellence and proactive solutions, including mosquito control. Its Four Seasons pest control plan offers immediate treatment and quarterly sessions to prevent mosquitoes and other household pests. It addresses mosquito infestations caused by Anopheles and Asian Tiger mosquitoes, which typically breed near standing water sources.
Truly Nolen also earned our top spot for rodent control, boasting an extensive track record of effectively managing rodent infestations. However, some consumers have reported concerns with treatment satisfaction and timely cancellation.
Who should use Truly Nolen
Truly Nolen’s winning services will benefit homeowners grappling with persistent rodent and mosquito problems and seeking proactive and customized solutions.
Pros and cons of Truly Nolen
Pros
- Four Seasons approach
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Environmentally conscious
Cons
- Some complaints regarding billing and treatment satisfaction
- Limited availability
- Some concerns with cancellation
Orkin: Best for experienced technicians
Star rating: 3.8 out of 5
Average cost: $25 per month for small homes and $80 per month for large homes; $250 one-time treatment
Control methods: Mix of synthetic chemicals and natural insecticides, prevention plan (remove standing water, etc.)
Effectiveness guarantee?: Yes
Why we picked Orkin
We recommendOrkin for its unmatched expertise and professionalism, driven by its seasoned technicians. With decades of experience in the industry, Orkin’s technicians bring a wealth of knowledge and skill to every pest control scenario, including mosquito control.
An Orkin expert will inspect your property and might utilize both synthetic chemicals and natural insecticides near water environments and areas where mosquitoes shelter and breed to eradicate these pests.
Who should use Orkin
Homeowners seeking pest control services backed by extensive experience and expertise benefit from Orkin’s services.
Pros and cons of Orkin
Pros
- Experienced technicians
- Reliable, on-time service
- Payment plans available
Cons
- Limiting pricing transparency
- Some concerns with scheduling
Viking Pest Control: Best for customer satisfaction
Star rating: 3.7 out of 5
Average cost: $95 per month; $673 Last Bite seasonal treatment
Control methods: Integrated pest management (IPM), Last Bite (eight-treatment plan, repellent spray), sustainable alternatives
Effectiveness guarantee?: Yes
Why we picked Viking Pest Control
We chose Viking Pest Control for its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, evidenced by its dedication to resolving complaints and recent enhancements to its customer portal. With upgraded features, including 24/7 account access from any device, easier navigation and improved pest activity history review, Viking ensures customers a seamless and convenient experience.
Besides customer service, Viking Pest Control is a reliable provider of mosquito treatment. Its Yard Guard program swiftly reduces mosquito and tick populations upon application. Its quick-drying and weather-resistant properties are engineered for durability and are perfect to use in preparation for special events.
Viking Pest Control addresses most complaints proactively, but some consumers have reported concerns about miscommunication.
Who should use Viking Pest Control
Viking Pest Control’s offerings are best suited for homeowners seeking pest control services with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction.
Pros and cons of Viking Pest Control
Pros
- 24/7 Customer Connect Portal (mobile friendly, can request service, pay bills and more)
- 40+ years experience and A+ BBB rating (addresses complaints proactively)*
- Informative educational resources on website
Cons
- Frustrations with delayed cancellation
- Some concerns about miscommunication
- Some concerns with scheduling
* Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings are accurate as of June 2024.
Terminix: Best for convenience
Star rating: 3.6 out of 5
Average cost: $200
Control methods: Botanical insecticides, fogging, sprays, traps, Quick Guard (a polymer layer)?
Effectiveness guarantee?: Yes
Why we picked Terminix
Terminix is top-notch in our book for convenience. It offers flexible treatment options like one-time and quarterly plans tailored to individual needs. The company’s personalized approach, starting with a thorough property assessment, ensures a customized and effective pest control strategy.
Terminix has also established itself as a reliable and adaptable solution for mosquito management. For ongoing mosquito control, multiple visits during the season target all U.S. mosquito species, with treatment lasting between services. One-time services provide a comprehensive treatment for smaller areas, effectively creating a barrier against mosquitoes.
Terminix is the go-to for convenience, but there are still a few kinks to work out when it comes to delays with cancellation, for example.
Who should use Terminix
Terminix offers one-time or recurring treatments, such as quarterly plans. It’s the top choice for those seeking a reliable track record and flexible, customized pest control.
Pros and cons of Terminix
Pros
- Flexible treatment options and scheduling
- Commitment to environment and safety
- MyAccount online portal to pay bills and schedule services
Cons
- Delays with cancellation
- Slow refund processing
- May be expensive for some budgets
Our picks at a glance
|
Our rating (out of 5 stars)
|
Additional services
|
State availability
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Mosquito Authority | 3.5 |
All-natural solutions, fly control, general pest control, special events services, tick control |
48 states (not available in HI and WA) |
| Arrow Exterminators | 4.1 |
Ant control, general pest control, handyman services, insulation services, lawn care services, moisture control, rodent and wildlife control, termite control |
AL, AZ, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA |
| Ehrlich | 3.8 |
Bioremediation, fumigation, general pest control, heat treatments, moisture control, thermal acoustical pest (TAP) insulation services, vegetation management |
CT, DE, FL, GA, ME, MD, MA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, VT, VA and Washington, D.C. |
| Truly Nolen | 3.8 |
General pest control, insulation services, lawn care, rodent control, termite control |
AZ, CA, FL, GA, KY, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX and Puerto Rico |
| Orkin | 3.8 |
General pest control, termite control, prevent and protect services (moisture control, energy efficiency, etc.) |
49 states (not available in Alaska) |
| Viking | 3.7 |
General pest control, |
NJ, PA, DE and the eastern shore of Maryland |
| Viking | 3.6 |
Attic insulation, crawl space services, general pest control, gutter protection, rodent control, termite control, wildlife removal |
45 states (not available in AK, MT, ND, SD and VT); Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico |
What didn’t make the cut
- Aptive: Despite its eco-friendly treatment options, customers have reported issues with aggressive sales tactics and difficulty canceling services.
- Bulwark: Though Bulwark offers a satisfaction guarantee, mixed reviews reveal that some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of its treatments.
- Massey: While Massey employs integrated pest management solutions, it’s faced criticism for inconsistent service quality and challenges in addressing customer concerns promptly.
How to pick the best mosquito control company
- Don’t rush. Take time to select a competent and reasonably priced company. Obtain several estimates from prospective companies as most offer free estimates.
- Research the company’s reputation. Ask the company how long it’s been in business in your area. Research complaints filed against the company through organizations like the BBB or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- Look into certifications and licenses. Ensure the applicators are certified and licensed. Many states require written exams to become certified and may require “applicators” to take recertification courses. The company should also have an active business license, commercial pest control license and liability insurance. Verify licenses by contacting your State Departments of Agriculture.
- Request documentation. Ask for copies of the pest control license and pesticide labels for products used. Reliable companies will provide proper credentials and detailed information on pesticide application rates and precautions.
- Watch out for red flags. Avoid companies offering pest control as part of unrelated package deals. Be cautious of companies without listed telephone numbers or those targeting vulnerable populations. Don’t give into high-pressure tactics, secret formulas or endorsements falsely claimed by the company.
- Evaluate service contracts carefully. Ensure the terms align with your needs and the pest situation. Understand the terms of any guarantee, including coverage, inspection charges and responsibility for structural damage. The contract should cover the scope of services, pricing and payment terms, guarantees and warranties, cancellation policies, liability and insurance and any additional terms and conditions.
What does mosquito control cost?
The cost of professional mosquito treatments can vary widely, from single applications targeting specific areas to comprehensive, multi-visit programs. Professional mosquito treatments cost around $450, though it can vary significantly from $80 to $2,000 depending on factors like treatment length and property size.
Chemical vs. natural mosquito control methods
pro tip
- Acephate, an active ingredient used to treat biting and sucking insects, can cause headaches, excessive salivation, nausea, diarrhea, respiratory depression, seizures, loss of consciousness and pinpoint pupils. Consult with local University Extension Services for guidance on pesticide selection and usage.
Chemical and natural mosquito control methods offer different ways to manage mosquito populations. Chemical methods act quickly but may pose environmental or health risks, while natural methods are eco-friendly but may require more effort. Combining approaches can maximize effectiveness while minimizing risks; most pest control companies take this approach.
Here are a few examples of both chemical and natural mosquito control methods:
Chemical mosquito control methods
- Synthetic pesticides: Synthetic pesticides kill or repel mosquitoes upon contact or by them swallowing the pesticide. They disrupt the nervous system of mosquitoes, leading to paralysis or death. However, they may also harm beneficial insects and wildlife, and long-term use can risk contaminating the environment.
- Insect growth regulators (IGRs): IGRs, such as methoprene, prevent mosquito larvae from reaching adulthood by disrupting hormonal processes essential for growth. However, they’re not effective against adult mosquitoes, and this method might harm aquatic life.
- Larvicidal oils and films: These oils and films are usually spread by hand over the surface of still water. The substance makes it tough for mosquito larvae and pupae to stick to the surface and breathe. So, they die before they become a threat as adults.
Natural Mosquito Control Methods
- Biological controls: Products that contain Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), a natural bacteria found in soil, act as a special bug killer for mosquito larvae. When young mosquitoes eat Bti, it disrupts their stomachs, so they can’t eat anymore. It’s natural and doesn’t hurt other animals or the environment. Pest control professionals put Bti where there’s standing water and in muddy, shady spots.
- Mosquito-eating fish: Mosquitofish eat mosquito larvae and pupae, reducing mosquito populations in small bodies of water. They are active feeders and can quickly wipe out mosquito breeding sites. These fish need their own enclosed habitat since they aren’t effective in large bodies of water and could invade local ecosystems.
- Natural repellents: Natural repellents like lemon eucalyptus and neem oil repel mosquitoes by masking human odors. A DIY spray with lemon eucalyptus oil may be more effective than a citronella candle at keeping mosquitoes away. You can also include mosquito-repellent plants, such as peppermint or lemongrass, in your garden. This treatment method provides a short amount of protection compared to synthetic repellents.
- Habitat modification: Eliminate or reduce mosquito breeding sites. Cut back foliage around shady areas where mosquitoes swarm. Remove standing water sources where mosquitoes lay eggs. This interrupts the mosquito life cycle and reduces population growth. This method requires ongoing maintenance.
What is whole-house pest management?
Whole-house pest management addresses potential pest issues throughout a property rather than just targeting specific areas or pests. This approach involves identifying and eliminating factors that attract pests, implementing preventive measures to minimize pest entry and reproduction and using targeted treatments to control pest populations.
pro tip
- In-home mosquito control eliminates breeding spots and hiding places inside the house, like dark, damp areas. Outdoor mosquito control targets areas around the home, such as yards and ponds. By tackling both environments, professional treatment plans can effectively target mosquito populations.
Whole-house pest management, including mosquito control, may not be necessary for every property. But it can be beneficial for homeowners who experience significant mosquito problems or prioritize proactive pest prevention.
Here are some considerations to help you determine if whole-house pest management, specifically for mosquitoes, is necessary for your property:
- Mosquito activity: If you frequently encounter mosquitoes indoors and outdoors, especially during peak mosquito season, whole-house pest management may be beneficial.
- Property size and landscape: Consider the size of your property and its landscape features. Larger properties with extensive outdoor areas, standing water sources (ponds, waterfalls or birdbaths) and dense vegetation supplying shade are more prone to mosquito breeding and require comprehensive mosquito control measures.
- Health risks: Mosquito bites can also transmit mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus, Zika virus or dengue fever. Investing in whole-house mosquito control may be a priority if you or your family members are particularly vulnerable.
- Personal activity levels: How active are you? While one or two bites aren’t a big deal, if mosquito swarms regularly feed on you and your guests, whole-house pest management control can significantly increase the enjoyment of your property.
- Environmental factors: Consider any environmental factors that contribute to mosquito breeding and growth. Nearby bodies of water, backed-up gutters or old tires used in gardens are all places where mosquitoes hide out and breed.
What to ask before hiring a mosquito control company
Before hiring a mosquito control company, you should ask several key questions to ensure you’re choosing a reputable and effective service provider:
- What mosquito control methods do you use? Understand the techniques and products the company employs for mosquito control, whether it’s spraying, larviciding or other methods. Ensure they use safe and environmentally friendly options.
- Are your technicians trained and licensed? Verify that the company’s technicians are properly trained and hold relevant licenses or certifications for mosquito control. This ensures they have the expertise to handle the job safely and effectively.
- What is your experience in mosquito control? Ask about the company’s experience in dealing with mosquito infestations, including the number of years they’ve been in business and their track record of success.
- Can you provide references or testimonials? Ask for references from past clients or look up online reviews, such as the Better Business Review, to check out the company’s reputation. How satisfied do past customers seem with the provided services?
- Do you offer a guarantee or warranty? Reputable companies provide guarantees or warranties for their mosquito control services. This ensures you can get a retreatment or a refund if mosquitoes return.
- What is the cost of your services? Request a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with mosquito control services, including any recurring fees or additional charges. Compare prices with other companies to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
- Do you offer a customized treatment plan? Ensure the company offers a tailored treatment plan based on your property and mosquito infestation.
- What safety precautions do you take? Ask about the company’s safety practices to protect you, your family, pets and the environment during mosquito control treatments. Many states require technicians to follow specific guidelines for applying certain chemicals.
- How often will treatments be necessary? Understand the frequency of treatments required to control mosquito populations on your property effectively. Ideally, the company should provide ongoing maintenance to keep mosquitoes at bay. Knowing the dates in advance also prevents you from getting surprise charges.
- Can you provide information on the products used? Ask for information about the pesticides or insecticides used in mosquito control treatments, including their safety details and potential risks. Ensure they comply with regulatory standards and are safe for use around humans and pets.
pro tip
- Use the instructions provided by the service professional, such as removing personal items and pets and taking other necessary precautions. Cooperate with nonchemical methods suggested by the pest control company to reduce pesticide use.
Methodology
We spent hours sifting through providers to ensure we only recommend the best pest control companies available. We also believe in honesty and transparency, so we’ll include our detailed methodology below.
