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Home / Pest Control
By Tiffany Chaney, Alora Bopray and Roxanne Downer, CNN Underscored
Published 4:04 PM EDT, Tue June 25, 2024
What's in this guide
- What is the average cost of fumigation?
- What is fumigation?
- What factors affect fumigation costs?
- Are there alternatives to fumigation?
- When to fumigate
- How to prepare for fumigation
- DIY fumigation vs. hiring a professional
- How to save money on fumigation
- Bottom line
- Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Key takeaways
Fumigation costs an average of $3 per square foot but prices vary based on the pest, fumigation method and the extermination company you choose.
Termites are among the most expensive pests to treat with fumigation, but this treatment method may be the best choice for severe infestations.
Fumigation is best left to the pros, since fumigant ingredients can be harmful to people and pests.
Pests like bedbugs and termites can be a homeowner’s nightmare, and fumigation costs are a considerable factor when dealing with such issues. If creepy crawlers overstay their welcome in your home, fumigation could be the wisest investment you’ll make. On average, residential treatment costs $3 per square foot, but it can cost more depending on several factors.
What is the average cost of fumigation?
Fumigation costs can vary significantly based on several factors. The lowest fumigation cost estimates are typically for smaller homes with minimal infestations, while the highest cost estimates involve larger homes with severe infestations that require extensive treatment.
The following average cost of fumigation, up to $3 per square foot, is based on a home that is approximately 2,000 square feet.
Average costs of fumigation
- Lowest cost: $1 per square foot
- Average cost: $3 per square foot
- Highest cost: $4 per square foot
What is fumigation?
Fumigation is a thorough and handy method for dealing with a severe pest invasion, saving you from ongoing pest control expenses.
“Fumigation is capable of controlling most pests, but due to more affordable treatment options that are highly effective, it tends only to be used on a handful of pest species routinely,” says Craig Sansig, service director, ACE, PHE at Viking Pest Control. “The most commonly fumigated pests are drywood and dampwood termites, wood-infesting beetles and food-infesting insects in bulk stored commodities.”
Fumigation methods
There are three main methods of fumigation:
- Tent fumigation involves enveloping the outer walls of a residence with tight tarps or tents and then introducing fumigant gas. Pest control companies often save this method — which targets pests like termites, wood-boring beetles and bedbugs — for the most severe infestations. It requires a lot of planning and compliance with local regulations, often adding to the cost burden. Residents must temporarily vacate the premises during treatment.
- Localized fumigation, also known as spot fumigation, pinpoints specific areas of infestation. Experts isolate or seal off sections of the property before applying pesticides or fumigation sprays. This method is particularly effective for pest control in confined spaces or where tenting the entire structure isn’t feasible.
- Container fumigation targets single items. By sealing the item within a confined space, professionals fumigate its interior. This method generally incurs lower costs than treating the entire home, but it’s reserved for highly localized pest issues.
Different types of fumigants
Fumigants come in different states of matter (gas, liquid and solid) and are used to address specific pest issues, such as tent fumigation for severe infestations and localized fumigation for specific areas. Each method offers distinct advantages and considerations:
- Gas utilizes gaseous fumigants with specialized equipment. A tarp or tent traps fumigant gas, which penetrates wood pores and crevices to eliminate pests like drywood termites and bedbugs. Sulfuryl fluoride is commonly used and is odorless, tasteless and toxic to inhale. Fans help disperse the gas after the tarp is removed. Gas is used for residential homes for both whole-house tenting and container fumigation. Container fumigation is often used for commercial industries when importing or exporting items, though it can be used residentially.
- Liquid involves liquid fumigants applied via sprayers or foggers. Liquid treatments are used by applying them carefully in areas where pests are most active. Termidor SC is renowned among professionals for eradicating termites through its “transfer effect,” ensuring comprehensive colony elimination. Meanwhile, Bedlam Plus is specially formulated to combat bedbugs, targeting adult insects and their eggs. General sprays like Talstar P are often used preventatively or for a broad spectrum of pests. The selection of sprays depends on the specific infestation, with some, like Talstar P, preferred for outdoor application due to their resilience, while others, like Bedlam Plus, are specifically designed for safe indoor use. These are more used in localized fumigation.
- Solid employs solid fumigants like pellets or powder containing chemicals like aluminum phosphide or magnesium phosphide, which release toxic gas when exposed to air or moisture. It’s primarily used in grain storage in agricultural practices. Pest control companies typically prefer other methods like sprays or baits for homes, but they may resort to solid fumigation in certain situations where other methods fall short.
What factors affect fumigation costs?
Several factors influence fumigation costs, including the company you choose, its fumigation method and the size of your home.
Fumigation pricing models
While many fumigation companies adhere to a square footage-based pricing model, you may encounter variations during your search. Below are the most common pricing models in fumigation, along with their advantages and disadvantages.
- Size-focused pricing: This model uses a flat-rate pricing structure determined by property size. An expert assesses your home and assigns a price per square foot. While this offers a clear comparison point, it might not cover follow-up visits or additional expenses.
- Hourly rates: Fumigators using hourly rates bill according to the time spent in your home rather than a fixed fee based on home size. While this method offers potentially more accurate pricing, it allows for more variability.
- Per-room pricing: This model calculates costs based on a flat fee per room, regardless of size. It’s beneficial for targeted pest issues but may not be suitable for comprehensive whole-home fumigation.
Make sure any estimates from exterminators include detailed pricing information, either as a flat rate or hourly rate, in writing. Some treatment plans may require follow-up treatments at a different rate.
Home size and structure
The size and structure of a home play a significant role in determining costs. Larger homes may require more extensive fumigation efforts, while the layout and design of a residence can affect treatment accessibility and complexity. Getting rid of pests in every nook and cranny of a large home might be more challenging because some places are tricky to reach. If there are also extra buildings or a big garden, those areas also need special attention to ensure pests are gone for good.
Average cost of fumigation by house size
| Low estimate | High estimate | |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $1,000 | $4,500 |
| 1,500 sq. ft. | $1,500 | $6,000 |
| 2,000 sq. ft. | $2,000 | $9,000 |
| 2,500 sq. ft. | $2,500 | $11,000 |
| 3,000 sq. ft. | $3,000 | $12,000 |
Infestation type
The type of pest infestation can significantly affect the cost of fumigation. Some pests require specific treatments, which affect both the materials used and the time spent on eradication.
Often introduced through furniture or clothing, termites establish themselves and can go unnoticed for months, making removal without fumigation challenging.
Certain beetle species, especially the powderpost beetle, can infest and burrow deep into a home’s structure, making spot treatment difficult. In extreme cases, tenting and fumigation may be necessary to combat severe bedbug infestations.
Average cost of fumigation by pest type
| Cost range | |
|---|---|
| Ants | $1,500 - $4,000 |
| Bedbugs | $3,000 - $4,000 |
| Carpet beetles | $1,500 - $5,500 |
| co*ckroaches | $1,500 - $1,700 |
| Dust mites | $1,500 - $3,500 |
| Fleas | $1,500 - $4,000 |
| Mosquitoes | $1,500 - $6,000 |
| Pantry pests (beetles, moths, silverfish) | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Rodents | $500 - $5,000 |
| Spiders | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Termite tenting | $2,000 - $8,000 |
| Ticks | $2,000 - $6,000 |
Infestation severity
The severity of an infestation is a key factor in determining the cost of fumigation. Whether it’s a minor, major, or severe case, the level of intervention required will affect the overall expense. Consider co*ckroach fumigation as an example.
A minor infestation may involve fewer than five roaches, while 25 or more would constitute a severe infestation. If you spot co*ckroach droppings or eggs, your home is likely facing a severe infestation.
Average co*ckroach fumigation cost by severity
| Estimated fumigation cost | |
|---|---|
| Minor | $100 - $200 |
| Major | $250 - $350 |
| Severe | $400 - $7,500 |
Fumigation company
Different pest control companies, including recognizable names like Aptive, Ehrlich, Orkin and Terminix, have varying approaches and pricing structures for fumigation costs.
- Aptive focuses on environmentally friendly pest control methods and offers a quarterly service plan — a subscription-based pricing model in which customers pay a regular fee for quarterly treatments. The cost may vary based on the type of pests and the property size.
- Ehrlich offers integrated pest management solutions, which combine chemical and non-chemical methods to control pests. Ehrlich typically provides customized quotes based on the specific pests and the property size.
- Orkin is known for its comprehensive pest control services, including inspection, sanitation and treatment, to eliminate pests. Orkin customizes its pricing based on factors such as the type of pest, the severity of the infestation, and the size of the property.
- Terminix employs a variety of pest control methods, including chemical treatments, traps and exclusion techniques. It provides personalized quotes based on your specific pest problems and property size and may also offer ongoing maintenance plans.
Homeowners should consider the reputation and expertise of the chosen company when assessing costs and treatment effectiveness.
Additional costs
When preparing for fumigation, homeowners may not account for additional costs. Temporary housing, possible necessary home repairs and post-treatment cleaning costs all have a financial impact that’s often forgotten about until the fumigation team arrives. Calculating and budgeting for these costs in advance can save you money. That may mean staying with relatives and budgeting for groceries.
Are there alternatives to fumigation?
While fumigation is a common approach, alternative treatments exist. Each method comes with its own costs and considerations.
| Average cost | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Bait stations | $1,500 - $3,000 | Attract pests and eliminate colonies with slow-acting poison |
| Chemical soil treatment | $500 - $2,000 | Places liquid pesticides in the soil around the home as a barrier to entry |
| Freeze | $3 - $6 per square foot | Reduces pest body temperature; pests die ofasphyxiation |
| Micro treatments | $6 - $8 per square foot | Targets small infestations using heat, microwave guns and other small-scale methods. |
| Heat | $1,000 - $2,000 | Raises temperature in the structure to 120°F, a lethal temperature for many pests |
| Steam | $2 - $8 per square foot | Burns pests on contact at lethal temperatures; often combined with other treatment methods as a surface treatment |
When to fumigate
Fumigation is generally the best option when dealing with severe pest infestations that can’t be controlled effectively through other methods. Here are some scenarios when fumigation might be appropriate for various pests:
- Hard-to-reach areas: For pests that burrow deep into structures or inhabit areas that are difficult to access, fumigation can penetrate these spaces and eliminate hidden infestations.
- Multiple pests invading: Fumigation can be a comprehensive solution when simultaneously dealing with multiple pest types, streamlining the treatment process.
- Prevention: In some cases, property owners may choose fumigation as a preventive measure, especially during the construction or purchase of a new property, to eliminate any potential hidden pests.
- Resistant pests: If pests prove resistant to other treatments, fumigation with potent pesticides may be required to ensure complete eradication.
- Severe infestations: Fumigation becomes necessary when pests, such as termites, bedbugs or certain beetles, have infested a property extensively, making targeted treatments ineffective.
Pest control professionals can assess the need for fumigation to address specific situations and present available options. Some homes may need multiple professional visits to control pest issues effectively.
How to prepare for fumigation
Preparation is critical to a successful fumigation process. Here are essential steps homeowners should take before the fumigation team arrives
- Prepare alternative accommodations, such as staying with relatives, if you anticipate a longer length of the treatment.
- Remove pets, even fish, from the home.
- Place plants in a sheltered, safe area far from the home, such as a storage shed at the end of the property.
- Remove opened consumable items, such as medicine, snacks and pet food.
- Open furniture and appliance doors, drawers and doors between rooms. Be sure also to open the glove box and trunk of any unused car inside the garage.
- Clear clutter in storage rooms, crawl spaces and closets.
- Remove crib mattresses and unwrap any plastic-covered mattresses; if waterproof covers have built-in air vents, leave them as is.
- Turn off all heat sources and unplug all appliances. If you have natural gas, make sure to shut it off.
- Trim foliage, shrubs and trees to maintain a minimum distance of 18 inches from the outer walls of the structure, ensuring adequate space for the fumigation tarps.
- Leave spare keys and home access information for the fumigator.
Some fumigant ingredients may react with heat sources or harm possessions, people and pets. So, the steps suggested above may vary according to the provider. Check with your fumigator for instructions on safely returning home after the treatment.
DIY fumigation vs. hiring a professional
DIY pest control has its advantages and drawbacks. It allows individuals to tackle minor issues swiftly, saving time instead of waiting for a professional technician. DIY fumigation comes with convenience and the ability to know precisely which treatment was applied, as well as the benefits of using products available in local home improvement stores.
However, relying on online guides for DIY treatment can be risky, as some sources could offer inaccurate or unsafe directions. Incorrect pesticide application may waste the product, prove harmful and ineffective and contribute to treatment resistance. Additionally, DIYers might underestimate the risks of over-the-counter products, which could endanger sensitive individuals like the sick or elderly.
Professional technicians address the root cause of pest issues and tailor the treatments they recommend to the customer’s specific needs. They provide homeowners with a detailed treatment plan, which ensures transparency about the products used. Despite the upfront cost and potential service delays, the expertise and precision of professional pest control make it a worthwhile long-term investment, increasing the likelihood of successful pest removal.
How to save money on fumigation
Homeowners can save money without compromising the effectiveness of the fumigation process. Here are a few tips:
- Get an inspection to determine the degree of damage. You may only need to spot-treat the issue and take precautions for the future rather than have the whole house tented.
- Shop around for quotes. Different providers offer competitive pricing, including deals for new customers.
- Explore options for spreading payments out over time to make fumigation more budget-friendly.
- Consider doing the pre-treatment cleaning yourself and ask family and friends to help instead of hiring a cleaning service.
According to Garrett Thrasher, the vice president and general manager at Thrasher Termite & Pest Control of So Cal, one piece of advice for cost savings is often overlooked in the case of a rodent infestation.
Thrasher advises homeowners to “get rid of mice and rats before the fumigation. Fumigation is not a solution to a rat or mouse invasion. Yes, the fumigant will kill rodents, but their remains will be left inside your house, often in a wall or other inaccessible location, where they begin to decay and smell.” He said this can lure rodents back into your home, exacerbating a pest problem you thought was resolved.
Bottom line
When it comes to fumigation costs, consider your home size, the severity of the pest situation, the type of pests and the treatment method you select. While the upfront costs may seem significant, the long-term benefits, including the elimination of pests and protection against future damage, make it worthwhile.
Always consult with professionals and consider alternative options to make an informed decision tailored to your specific situation. To save money, get an inspection to ensure that you receive a targeted treatment plan, shop around for quotes, review payment plans and contracts thoroughly, and consider doing your own pre-fumigation cleaning.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Fumigation time frames vary, but treatment typically takes between 24 and 72 hours, depending on the method used and the infestation’s severity.
Yes, the cost is often justified by the comprehensive eradication of pests, which will protect your home and belongings in the long run. Fumigation offers immediate resolution to pest invasions, unlike the risk-taking that can be involved with DIY attempts.
While fumigation is generally safe when performed by professionals, there can be risks that can be minimized by taking proper precautions. Discuss any concerns with your selected service provider.
Minimal maintenance is typically needed. Airing out the home and following any post-fumigation instructions from the professionals should suffice.
Fumigation is effective against a wide range of pests, including termites, bedbugs, co*ckroaches and others.
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