Many pest control companies are moving toward a sustainable future. Orkin and Truly Nolen are both doing their part for the environment, so how do you choose which pest control company is best for you?
Our side-by-side comparison of Orkin and Truly Nolan looks at elements such as location, cost, services, pests treated, and customer reviews to help you make the best decision.
- Orkin vs. Truly Nolen: Side-by-Side
- Orkin Highlights
- Orkin Pricing
- How to Get a Quote and Order Service from Orkin
- Truly Nolen Highlights
- Truly Nolen Pricing
- How to Get an Instant Quote and Order Service from Truly Nolen
- Buyers Guide to Choosing Between Orkin and Truly Nolen
- FAQ About Pest Control
- DIY Pest Control
- Other National Pest Control Companies to Consider
Orkin vs. Truly Nolen: Side-by-Side
Pests They Treat
| Pests | Orkin | Truly Nolen |
| Ants | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bed bugs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Beetles | ✓ | ✓ |
| Carpenter ants | ✓ | ✓ |
| Centipedes and millipedes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cockroaches | ✓ | ✓ |
| Crickets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Earwigs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fleas | ✓ | ✓ |
| Flies | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mites | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mosquitoes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Moths | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pantry pests | Pantry Beetles Only | ✓ |
| Rodents (mice, rats, etc.) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scorpions | ✓ | ✓ |
| Silverfish | ✓ | ✓ |
| Spiders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stinging pests (bees, wasps, etc.) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stink bugs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Termites | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ticks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wildlife | ✓ | Birds Only |
Pricing
| Service | Orkin | Truly Nolen |
| Basic Pest Services | $45-$85 per month | $45-$75 per month |
| Termite Treatment | $950-$1,550 | N/A |
| Bed Bug Treatment | $500-$1,500 | N/A |
| Single Treatment | $250-$600 | $300-$400 |
Main Features
| Feature | Orkin | Truly Nolen |
| How many states do they serve? | 47 (Excluding AR, SD, WY) | 16 (Including AZ, CA, FL, GA, KY, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT) |
| Service Plans Offered | ||
| One-time service? | ✓ | ✓ |
| Monthly service? | ✓ | ✓ |
| Quarterly service? | ✗ | ✓ |
| Offers eco-friendly options? | ✓ | ✓ |
| Does it serve commercial properties? | ✓ | ✓ |
| Customer Service | ||
| Gives instant quotes online? | ✗ | ✓ |
| Has an online portal for scheduling, billing, etc? | ✓ | ✓ |
| 24/7 customer support? | ✓ | ✓ |
| Better Business Bureau rating | A+ | A+ |
| Additional Services Offered | ||
| Attic insulation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Moisture control | ✓ | ✗ |
| Sanitation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gutter guards | ✓ | ✗ |
| Lawn treatments for pests weeds, and diseases | Only available in FL | Only available in FL |
Orkin and Truly Nolen both have decades of experience. When choosing between the two, it comes down to location. Truly Nolen only operates in 16 states while Orkin serves 47.
Truly Nolen is 100% committed to the environment and uses only environmentally-friendly methods. Both companies focus on long-term prevention using their Integrated Pest Management approaches to reduce pesticide use. Integrated Pest Management customizes treatments to the situation and treats the environment in which pests live.
Both companies treat an extensive list of pests, however, Truly Nolen only offers bird control while Orkin provides complete wildlife control services. Orkin does not treat most pantry pests.
Both companies offer single treatment options in addition to their recurring maintenance plans. Orkin’s inspections are not free, and they do not provide online quotes. Truly Nolen provides instant quotes online for their general pest control plan and intensive single treatment service.
Orkin offers more extended services outside of pest control including gutter guards, insulation installation, sanitation, and moisture control. Truly Nolen only offers sanitation services and insulation installation. Both companies offer Florida residents exterior pest and weed control.
In the end, you need to consider your needs and location. If you live in a desert area with scorpions, Truly Nolen is the company for you. If you live in a humid environment and need help controlling moisture, Orkin is the one to call.
Orkin Highlights
Orkin’s global presence has grown to include over 50 countries and 400 U.S. locations. Starting small in Walnutport, Pennsylvania, Orkin is now the largest and oldest pest control company in the U.S. It has over 120 years of experience, and it uses this experience to train its technicians. Each one participates in 160 hours of simulation and training.
Environmentally-Friendly Approach
Orkin uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. They combine traditional chemical treatments with pesticide-free prevention options like bait and traps to minimize their environmental impact. IPM reduces potential risk to children, pets, and beneficial pollinators like honey bees and butterflies.
Customer Satisfaction
IPM relies on customized solutions that maximize results while reducing environmental impact. Orkin technicians develop plans for each customer during the paid inspection. Their treatments focus on long-term prevention and are backed by a guarantee for as long as you remain a customer.
Whole-Home Solutions
Orkin’s focus on long-term prevention extends to whole-home solutions. Their extended services aim to treat pests and the environment they live in. They include:
- Orkin Leaf Stopper gutter guards to prevent pests and water damage
- Orkin DryZone moisture control, a customized service to reduce humidity, protect pipes, and increase energy efficiency
- OrkinTherm and Orkin Comfort Zone insulation installation for attics, crawl spaces, and basements to provide temperature regulation and pest defense
- Orkin VitalClean sanitation service to kill 100% of bacteria on hard surface and sanitize soft surfaces
- Lawn treatments for Florida residents to prevent outdoor pests, weeds, and diseases
Orkin Pricing
Finding exact prices for Orkin services can be difficult. Their reputation and experience lend to higher-than-average prices. Basic pest control services start at $45 per month with one-time services starting at $250. Specialty services like termite and bed bug control start at $500.
There are a lot of factors that determine the cost of your service including the size of your home and outdoor space, the type of infestation, the location of the infestation, the type of treatments needed, and your location. Orkin will provide a rough estimate over the phone, however, paying for an inspection is the best way to receive the most accurate quote.
How to Get a Quote and Order Service from Orkin
Orkin does not offer instant quotes. However, they make it easy to schedule a callback for a free quote from a local branch representative in your area. All you have to do is enter some basic information.
Step 1. Start by clicking on “Get a Quote” or “Get a Free Quote” anywhere on Orkin’s website.
Step 2. Next, select the reason for your inquiry and input some basic contact information. Here, you have the option to select a date and time that best suits your schedule to receive your callback and quote.
It’s important to note that some services require an inspection to diagnose. The service representative who contacts you will likely ask what pest you are dealing with, how long the issue has been occurring, and how large your property is.
States Covered: 47; not available in AR, SD, WY
Pests Covered: Ants, bed bugs, beetles, carpenter ants, centipedes, millipedes, cockroaches, crickets, earwigs, fleas, flies, mites, mosquitoes, moths, rodents, silverfish, spiders, stinging pests, stink bugs, termites, ticks, wildlife
Pros:
- 120+ years of experience
- Integrated Pest Management
- Skilled technicians
- Same-day and next-day appointments
- Satisfaction guarantee
- Extended home services
Cons:
- Paid inspections
- Higher-than-average prices
- No instant quotes
Customer Reviews:
At-home tips: “My tech is very knowledgeable. He pays close attention to his work and gives me tips to help keep my home pest-free!.” – Brian R., Trustpilot
Scheduling issues: “The quality of their product is great. Since we started using them, we’ve seen a massive reduction of any fun little bugs that lurk around Texas. However, their scheduling and timing are a nightmare. The technician showed up well outside the timeframe provided.” – Patrick G., Google
Well-trained technicians: “It was easy to understand what the technician was doing and the treatments he was using. Customer service was great. The technicians are trained very well and can handle any bugs.” – Royce G., BBB
Truly Nolen Highlights
Truly Nolen is one of the largest family-owned pest control companies in the U.S. Dating back to 1938, Truly Nolan was founded in Miami by Truly Wheatfield Nolen.
Three generations and a fleet of famous yellow mouse cars later, the company now has a global presence in over 65 countries. Their backgrounds in entomology and research and development eventually led to the invention of their natural pest solutions and contributed to their family-first approach.
Green Side of Truly
Truly Nolen’s commitment to the environment extends beyond its pest control treatments into the community. They are involved with Rotary clubs, non-profit organizations, schools, and more.
Their environmental pledge includes their naturally occurring pest control treatments and encompasses their everyday business practices. Recognizable for their fleet of yellow mouse cars, they work to consume less fuel, use paperless billing, and increase other sustainability factors.
Four Seasons Pest Control
Truly Nolen offers treatments and specialty services for more than 100 types of pests. Their Integrated Pest Management Approach minimizes environmental impact while maximizing results and remaining safe for your pets and family.
Their Four Seasons Pest Control consists of quarterly treatments designed to treat and prevent pests. All plans are customized to your needs and designed to work around seasonal pest problems local to your area. Four Season Pest Control covers:
- Ants
- Crickets
- Fleas
- Mice
- Roaches
- Scorpions
- Spiders
- Ticks
- Wasps
- Beetles
- Boxelders
- Caterpillars
- Earwigs
- Millipedes
- Silverfish
Additional Services
Truly Nolen takes pride in delivering outstanding customer service 24/7 by phone. They offer an online portal where you can manage your account and schedule services.
Truly Nolen offers specialty services outside of traditional pest control including insulation installation, sanitation, and lawn treatments for Florida residents. Their lawn care consists of analyzing the soil, plants, climate, and pests to create a customized treatment plan.
Their Truly Insulation Plus service is eco-friendly and designed for:
- Attics, crawl spaces, and under flooring
- Optimal climate regulation
- Superior pest prevention
- First-class fire retardation
- Exceptional acoustic qualities
Truly Nolen Pricing
Truly Nolen offers one-time and recurring services. Packages are tailored to your needs and property. They offer instant online quotes for their recurring pest prevention plans. These plans start at $45 per month with single treatments starting at $300.
Specialized services like termite and bed bug treatments, rodent control, insulation installation, and bee removal require a free inspection before you receive a quote. Pricing for their services is based on your property size, the size of the infestation, the type of infestation, and your location.
How to Get an Instant Quote and Order Service from Truly Nolen
Truly Nolen’s online estimator makes it easy for you to purchase their preventative pest control package or a single intensive treatment.
Step 1. Start by clicking on “Free Estimate,” or use the drop-down menu to select your problem pest and click “Get an Estimate.”
Step 2. Enter your contact information, the approximate square footage of your home, and your ZIP code.
Step 3. Here, you will see your monthly price estimate along with the total due. You have the option to “Start Service” for the Four Seasons Pest Control or a one-time intensive treatment.
The below estimate is based on a 2,000-square-foot Arizona home.
Step 4. Lastly, enter your home address and review your billing plan before completing your purchase. Here, you can enter information about your pest problem.
A local representative will contact you to arrange an inspection and your first service. Large infestations may be subject to additional charges upon inspection.
States Covered: 16; AZ, CA, FL, GA, KY, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT
Pests Covered: Ants, bed bugs, beetles, carpenter ants, centipedes, millipedes, cockroaches, crickets, earwigs, fleas, flies, mites, mosquitoes, moths, pantry pests, rodents, scorpions, silverfish, spiders, stinging pests, stink bugs, termites, ticks, birds
Pros:
- Environmentally-friendly
- Money-back guarantee
- Online billing portal
- Flexible service plans
- Specialty services
Cons:
- Customer service variations between franchises
- No live chat
- Retreatments sometimes necessary
- States serviced
Customer Reviews:
Fair price: “The technician came out and explained everything that was needed. He gave a fair price and did what he said he was going to do.” – Pam W., Google
Great experience: “These guys are great. We have a quarterly service with them on one property and just did a one-off service on another. It is always a good experience, and they are easy to communicate with. The job is always well done and prices are competitive.” – Galina C., Yelp
Inconsistent service: “I have been a customer with them for a number of years. There is no consistency between the technicians and the treatment provided.” – Eric F., Nextdoor
Buyers Guide to Choosing Between Orkin and Truly Nolen
Orkin and Truly Nolen both treat a variety of pests with an Integrated Pest Management approach. Consider the following factors to help you make a decision.
Your Location
The first thing you need to consider is whether Orkin or Truly Nolen serves your area.
Orkin: Has over 400 locations spread across 47 states
Truly Nolen: Serves 150,000 customers across 100 locations in 16 states
Pests Covered
Next, you want to consider the type of pests each company treats.
Orkin: Does not treat most pantry pests, just pantry beetles
Truly Nolen: Only offers wildlife support for birds
Eco-Friendly Options
Most pest control companies offer eco-friendly services and treatments. Speak with your local Orkin or Truly Nolen representative to find out what options are available in your area.
Orkin and Truly Nolen: Both use Integrated Pest Management approaches to minimize environmental impact
Customer Testimonials
You can read how others view Orkin and Truly Nolen on sites like Google, Yelp, BBB, Nextdoor, and Trustpilot.
Orkin: Thorough and knowledgeable technicians are consistent strengths for Orkin while inconsistent scheduling and high prices are the biggest concerns for customers.
Truly Nolen: Customers raved about the low-cost, high-value options and punctual technicians but complained about the number of retreatments needed to resolve infestations.
Cost
Both Orkin and Truly Nolen customize treatments for their customers.
Orkin: General pest control will cost between $700 to $1,000 per year. This does not include specialized treatments for large infestations, termites, bed bugs, or mosquitoes. Inspections and estimates cost extra.
Truly Nolen: Four Seasons quarterly pest control costs between $550 to $1,000 per year and includes general pest control, inspections, and retreatments. Specialized treatments and lawn services cost extra.
Pest control prices are determined by the size of your home, your location, the type of infestation you are dealing with, and the number of treatments needed to eliminate your problem.
FAQ About Pest Control
The strongest EPA-approved products last 60-90 days. Heavy rainfall can affect the efficacy of treatments. Contact pesticides meant for targeted flying or crawling insects last around 30 days, while residual pesticides for general pest control last 90 days.
Year-round preventative pest control is an ideal solution for most customers. Winter is a crucial season for pest control maintenance. During this time, pest activity can worsen in many regions.
You may not be dealing with flying insects or mosquitoes, but that doesn’t mean all pests are dormant. Warm homes invite a host of crawling insects and rodents, making regular pest control a must.
Many pests like cockroaches and rodents contain allergens that can aggravate asthma. Preventing and removing these pests with a proper pest control plan and sanitation service can help alleviate asthma triggers.
DIY Pest Control
Not ready to commit to pest control? Why not try your hand at some DIY methods? Store-bought pesticides and everyday pantry items can safely treat a wide variety of pests. Check out LawnStarter’s Pest Control page for more resources.
Here are some helpful articles to get you started:
- How to Get Rid of Mice
- 11 Ways to Prevent Bed Bugs
- Which Household Pests Can Aggravate Your Allergies?
Other National Pest Control Companies to Consider
Save time and money by weighing your options thoroughly. Check out these other large pest control companies.
- Orkin vs. Rentokil: Pest Control Companies Compared
- Orkin vs. Massey Services: Pest Control Companies Compared
- Terminix vs. Truly Nolen: Pest Control Companies Compared
When to Call a Pest Control Pro
DIY methods not cutting it? Sometimes infestations are too large to safely handle at home. A pest control professional from Orkin or Truly Nolen can help you take back your space.
And if you’d like to consider more local pest control options, Pest Gnome makes it easy to connect with pest control pros near you. With just a few clicks, you’ll get quotes in minutes. Soon your pest control problem will be solved.
Main photo credit: division, CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
