Find the Best Pest Control in South Central Wisconsin

What to look for in a pest control company in South Central Wisconsin

Look for quality and value when selecting a pest control company. It’s essential to select a competent business with experience — misused pesticides can damage your health and property. When comparing pest control companies, look at:

Licensing and insurance

Pest control companies must be licensed in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Bureau of Agrichemical Management certifies pesticide applicators after they pass specific examinations to make them eligible for a license. You can request to see an exterminator’s license and insurance or search the state’s online certified pesticide applicator database.

Integrated pest management

According to the University of Wisconsin, integrated pest management (IPM) uses all available pest management strategies — cultural, physical, biological and chemical — to prevent pest outbreaks and reduce risks to human health and the environment. IPM helps assure that the parks and forestry in South Central Wisconsin benefit from a high standard of pest control while remaining healthy and vibrant.

Pesticide options

Pesticide products used in Wisconsin must be registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and users must adhere to the state’s laws on product storage, handling and use. Traditional pest companies may use harsh chemicals, like pyrethroids and pyrethrins, to eliminate bugs.

Companies that advertise practicing green pest control typically use pesticides with lower toxicities or nonchemical methods to get rid of pests. Ask your pest control company for copies of labels for all pesticides used and the rates at which they are applied.

Association accreditations

Professional associations, such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), provide members with useful information like pest control research findings, updated regulation information and a code of ethics. QualityPro recognizes leaders in the pest control industry and accredits companies through the NPMA.

The Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP), in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency, works with the nation’s pesticide-using community to promote IPM practices. Local associations include the Wisconsin Pest Control Association (WPCA) and the Wisconsin Wildlife Control Operators Association (WWCOA).

Average pest control service costs in South Central Wisconsin

Different pests require different services, so expect exterminator prices to vary significantly depending on your issue. Pest control costs are based on the type of pest, infestation level, where the pests are located and the size of the home or business that needs treatment.

A licensed and insured pest control company should provide you with a free estimate following consultation. Some common pest control costs are:

• Bat removal: Bat removal starts around $100 for a single bat. Removing colonies of 50 or fewer can cost up to $1,500, while colonies of 200 or more can cost over $5,000 to remove. Ideally, you want to let bats leave on their own and prevent them from returning by sealing off the primary entry points.
• Bed bug infestation: Bed bug extermination starts at around $300 for a small problem and can exceed $2,500 if you need to clear a large home or building. These infestations are difficult to treat, and it may be necessary to fumigate the affected areas if you have building-wide issues. Otherwise, heat treatments or pesticides can eradicate them.
• Ant removal: Ants are the most common pests in Wisconsin homes. Most feed on scraps of food and household items, but the black carpenter ant eats wood and can structurally damage your home. An initial treatment to remove ants starts around $150, while an annual contract can cost $400 or more.
• Rodent control: Rats, mice, voles, squirrels and other insects quickly multiply, cause structural damage and spreading disease if left unchecked. Removal and elimination services start at around $200 and usually require more than one visit.

Wisconsin exterminator FAQ

How often should pest control be done in South Central Wisconsin?

Annual contracts with quarterly visits allow your technician to inspect for pests even when they aren’t visible. These inspections help keep your pest management costs down by catching infestations early. If you’ve had an infestation, we recommend monthly visits for three to six months.

How do you prevent gnats?

To prevent gnats, start by eliminating dampness, rotting fruit and any sweet-smelling food that is out in the open and exposed. Gnats are also attracted to vegetables, flowers and overwatered plants. You should clean dishes immediately and change your garbage bags regularly, as well.

How long does it take for hornets to build a nest?

The size of a hornet nest grows in proportion to the size of its colony. It takes a queen about three weeks to start building, lay eggs, protect hatched larvae and then allow them to continue building the nest as fully developed hornets.

Why are there flying ants in my house?

Flying ants are swarmers. They are regular ants that have sprouted wings for mating season. Ants only fly when they’re getting ready to breed. Seeing swarmers could mean you’re sharing your home with a carpenter ant nest.

Do termites come back after treatment?

Termites rarely return if you have an ongoing prevention plan in place, but they might if left unchecked. That’s why inspections are strongly recommended as part of your posttreatment plan.

Who regulates pest control companies in Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) oversees the state’s pest control companies. The department’s Bureau of Agrichemical Management is responsible for certifying pesticide applicators after they pass the required examinations.