As the largest pest control company in the U.S., covering a whopping 47 states, Orkin prides itself on tackling a wide range of pests, from the nightly buzz of mosquitoes to the stealthy invasions of bed bugs and termites. But is Orkin the best fit for you?
This review provides a detailed look into Orkin’s services, strengths, and potential drawbacks. Our goal is to arm you with the knowledge to make a choice that suits your needs, allowing you to keep unwanted pests at bay and maintain peace of mind.
Orkin at a Glance
| Pests treated | |
| Ants | ✔ |
| Bed bugs | ✔ |
| Beetles | ✔ |
| Carpenter ants | ✔ |
| Centipedes and millipedes | ✔ |
| Cockroaches | ✔ |
| Crickets | ✔ |
| Earwigs | ✔ |
| Fleas | ✔ |
| Flies | ✔ |
| Mites | ✔ |
| Mosquitoes | ✔ |
| Moths | ✔ |
| Pantry pests | ✘ |
| Rodents (mice, rats, etc) | ✔ |
| Scorpions | ✘ |
| Silverfish | ✔ |
| Spiders | ✔ |
| Stinging pests (hornets, yellow jackets, wasps, etc) | ✔ |
| Stink bugs | ✔ |
| Termites | ✔ |
| Ticks | ✔ |
| Wildlife (raccoons, opossums, etc) | ✔ |
| How many states do they serve? | 47 (not including AK, SD, WY) |
| Do they serve commercial properties? | ✔ |
| Service plans offered | |
| One-time service | ✔ |
| Bi-monthly service | ✔ |
| Quarterly service | ✘ |
| Do they have eco-friendly options? | ✘ Orkin takes an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach, but doesn’t have a chemical-free option at this time. |
| Customer service | |
| Better Business Bureau rating | A+ |
| Do they give instant quotes online? | ✘ |
| Do they have an online portal for scheduling, billing, etc? | ✔ |
| 24/7 customer support? | ✔ |
| Additional services offered | |
| Attic insulation | ✔ |
| Crawl space services | ✘ |
| Moisture control | ✔ |
| Sanitation | ✔ |
| Gutter guards | ✔ |
| Lawn treatments for pests, weeds, and diseases | Only in FL |
Orkin Highlights
From its early days over a century ago, Orkin has established itself as a dominant figure in the pest control arena. Here are some of the company’s standout features:
Same-Day Service
Time is often of the essence. Recognizing this urgency, Orkin rises to the occasion by offering a same-day service feature, allowing clients to swiftly tackle infestations. This is a real game-changer if you’re suddenly facing a lot of pests and need help right away. It means less stress and a faster return to a pest-free home.
However, this speedy service doesn’t apply to termite issues or commercial services, as these need a bit more planning. But for most home pest problems, Orkin’s quick response is a big plus, ensuring you’re taken care of without any long waits.
Professional Training Center
Orkin doesn’t just rely on experience; they back it up with top-tier training. Their training center in Atlanta covers a vast 26,000 square feet and offers more than 50 unique learning areas. They blend in-field experiences with tech-driven virtual classes, reaching pros nationwide.
And what does this mean for their team? Every Orkin specialist undergoes a thorough 160 hours of training. So, when an Orkin pro arrives at your place, you can be assured they’ve been trained extensively to tackle any pest issue with expertise and care.
Environmental Responsibility
At the heart of Orkin’s operations lies the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach — a method that uses various techniques to address pest issues while prioritizing environmental care. Instead of a sole reliance on chemicals, IPM blends both chemical and non-chemical strategies to be more environmentally conscious.
And they don’t stop there! Orkin sticks to eco-friendly guidelines, champions energy efficiency, and even cuts down on paper use. All in all, you’re getting effective pest control that also respects our planet.
Community Involvement
Orkin is more than just a pest control service; it’s a brand that’s deeply invested in its communities, both locally and nationwide. Their commitment to societal engagement is evident through their numerous initiatives:
- O. Orkin Insect Zoo: Funded by Orkin at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History, it educates visitors about the essential role insects play in our ecosystem.
- Orkin Children’s Zoo in Atlanta: A reflection of Orkin’s dedication to education and appreciation for nature, this zoo fosters a connection between kids and the natural world.
- Mosquitoes Don’t Deserve a Drop Campaign: In a nationwide effort, Orkin has teamed up with the Red Cross, urging the public to donate blood and make a difference.
- OrkinServes Program: Every year, Orkin employees set aside time for community service, actively uplifting and supporting their local regions.
Beyond Pest Control
Orkin offers “Full Property Coverage,” ensuring that every nook and cranny of your home — both inside and out — is shielded. Here are the additional services they provide:
- Attic insulation: Orkin addresses potential pest entry points like gaps around foundations, windows, doors, and utility openings with specialized insulation.
- Gutter guards: To combat the challenges of gutter cleaning, Orkin presents the Leaf Stopper. This multipolymer insert fits perfectly in gutters, stopping the need for regular cleaning needs and preventing foundational damage.
- Moisture control: Understanding the risks of unchecked moisture, Orkin’s DryZone addresses vulnerable areas, like crawlspaces and basements, counteracting moisture issues and preempting potential problems.
- Sanitation service: With VitalClean, Orkin delivers a thorough cleaning service. Their powerful disinfectant eradicates 100% of bacteria and viruses listed on its label.
- Lawn care: In Florida, Orkin evaluates soil and grass conditions, identifies harmful pests, and offers protection against weeds and pests to maintain a healthy yard.
- Wildlife management: Orkin evicts unwelcome wildlife like squirrels, opossums, and raccoons. Their service encompasses exclusion and prevention, removal, and the application of wildlife repellents.
Orkin Lowlights
While Orkin stands out for its service range and seasoned expertise, every company has room for improvement. Here are some areas where Orkin might fall short:
Cost Considerations
With quality often comes a higher price tag, and Orkin is no exception. Their services tend to be on the pricier side when compared to other pest control companies. Moreover, while many competitors provide free initial inspections, Orkin only does so for termites. For other common pests, an inspection is not typically required (except for bed bugs).
However, if the customer changes their mind after the technician arrives and inspects the property (but before treatment begins), they can part ways with Orkin at no charge.
Franchise Variability
Orkin operates on a franchise model, which, while offering extensive reach, can sometimes lead to inconsistencies in service delivery across different locations.
An example of this is feedback from several Florida customers, who report challenges in determining when a technician will arrive due to inconsistent communication from the local franchise. Such instances underline the difficulty in ensuring uniform quality across all Orkin franchises.
Missing Online Chat Support
Orkin currently lacks an online chat feature. Without this option, potential and existing customers might find it inconvenient if they have immediate questions or concerns about Orkin’s services, requiring them to rely solely on the phone for support.
Orkin Pricing
Below is a summary of Orkin’s pricing for specific services, as indicated for a standard-sized home in Austin, TX:
- General pest plan: The initial visit costs $186. The following visits (the next month and then every two months thereafter) cost $120 every two months or $60 per month. This plan includes a total of seven visits in a year.
- Bed bugs: Inspection costs $117. Should you choose to proceed with Orkin’s bed bug treatment after the inspection, this fee will be applied toward the overall cost.
- Termite: Inspection is free. However, the treatment price for termites will be determined based on the results of this inspection.
- One-Time Services: Cost is $335. This service comes with a 30-day warranty.
Should you encounter any pest problems between scheduled visits, Orkin offers free retreatments throughout the year. In addition, if you’re unsatisfied with the services or retreatments, Orkin commits to refunding the most recent payment.
How to Get an Instant Quote and Order Service Online
While Orkin doesn’t provide on-the-spot online quotes, they’ve streamlined the process to connect you with local branch representatives for a detailed and free cost estimate. Follow these steps:
Step 1. Go to Orkin’s website and click “Get a Quote” in the top right corner.
Step 2. Click on “Schedule a Callback.”
Step 3. Select the service type you want, and provide your basic information so a representative can call you back. The service representative will typically inquire about the type of pest, the duration of the issue, and the size of your property.
Keep in mind that some services, like termite and bed bug treatment, require an inspection for an estimated quote.
States Covered: 47 (except AK, SD, WY)
Pests Covered: All common household pests. It does not cover scorpions and pantry pests.
Pros:
- Offers same-day service
- All technicians go through 160 hours of training
- Large state and pest coverage
- Involved with the community
- Offers various additional services unrelated to pest control
Cons:
- Pricier than other pest control companies
- Only offers free inspections for termite treatments
- Quality of service may vary between franchises
- Does not offer online chat support
Customer Reviews:
Prompt and professional: “We’ve had Orkin for several years now, and we’ve been very pleased with their service. They’re always prompt and professional, show up, and quickly take care of business. We’re very happy with our technician–he’s nice, listens to our needs, and keeps us pest-free.” – Chris S., Google
Short notice accommodation: “Began using Orkin during the holiday season last year. They accommodated a new client on very short notice. Only two interior services since December and no further insect activity. My technician is cordial and truly makes every effort to address my needs, concerns, or questions. Indeed, “Trust the Orkin man” as their slogan goes … But my tech is a woman — even better!” – Dawn D., Google
Unreliable scheduling: “Consistently showed up on unscheduled dates and no-showed scheduled appointments. I put up with it for months and complained to them every 2 weeks, and nothing changed. Absolutely terrible service.” – Bert F., Google
This rating is based on over 4,500 customer reviews found on Google. The reviews were taken from New York City, Los Angeles, CA, and Austin, TX.
Buyers’ Guide to Choosing a Pest Control Company
Selecting the right pest control company can feel overwhelming, given the many choices out there. To help you in the decision-making process, here are some key factors you should consider:
Your Location
The extent of service area is one of the primary differences between pest control companies. It’s essential to check that the company you’re considering offers its services in your specific location.
Fortunately, Orkin boasts extensive coverage across the United States. They operate in almost every state, with the exception of Alaska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. So, unless you live in one of these three states, Orkin will likely have you covered.
| State | Cities |
| Florida (FL) | Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa |
| Georgia (GA) | Atlanta |
| Missouri (MO) | Kansas City, St. Louis |
| Texas (TX) | Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio |
Pests Covered
You might be facing a problem with different pests at once, or maybe it’s just that one annoying mosquito keeping you up at night. Either way, check that the company you’re considering covers your problem pests before hiring them.
Orkin, for example, has extensive coverage, dealing with all common household pests. However, they do not offer treatments for scorpions and pantry pests.
Eco-Friendly Options
If you are environmentally conscious, it is a good idea to check with the company you’re considering beforehand to see if their methods are eco-friendly. Here are some questions you can ask:
- Do you use only EPA-registered pesticides?
- Is there a non-chemical pest control option?
- Do you have a green certification?
- Is the treatment going to harm beneficial insects, like bees?
Luckily, Orkin uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach, which means they use a combination of methods to control pests, including chemical and non-chemical solutions. This means they go to the root of the problem to treat it with as little impact on the environment as possible.
Customer Testimonials
Customer testimonials from platforms like Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot can be a great thermometer to check whether the pest company is providing quality service or not. Here are some things to look for when reading customer reviews:
- The overall tone of the reviews: Are most of the reviews positive or negative?
- The specific details of the reviews: What are the customers saying about the company’s services, products, and customer service?
- The frequency of the reviews: Are there recent reviews, or are they all from a long time ago?
Cost
The cost of pest control can vary depending on a number of factors:
- Type of pest: The type of pest you are dealing with will affect the cost of treatment. Some pests, such as termites, are more expensive to control than others.
- Size of your property: The larger your property, the more expensive it will be to treat.
- Frequency of treatments: The cost will be higher if you need treatments more often, such as during peak mosquito season.
If you’re on a budget, getting quotes from multiple companies is wise. However, don’t forget to consider the other factors, so you don’t end up paying for an ineffective treatment.
FAQ About Orkin
Yes, Orkin offers a money-back guarantee on their general pest plan. This means that if you are not satisfied with the service, you can get a free retreatment between visits. If the problem is not resolved, they offer a refund for your most recent payment.
Orkin also offers a 30-day warranty on their one-time services, so if you are not satisfied with the service within the 30-day window, Orkin will retreat the area at no charge.
Orkin offers three types of termite treatment options:
• Subterranean termite treatment: This is the most common type of termite treatment. It involves monitoring and bait stations, as well as termiticide application.
• Drywood termite treatment: Involves gas fumigation, which kills all termites in the infested area. Targeted termiticide applications may also be used.
• Dampwood termite treatment: Encompasses moisture removal and termiticide application.
The best type of termite treatment for your home will depend on the type of termites you have, the severity of the infestation, and the location of your home. Orkin will conduct a free inspection to determine the best course of action.
Yes, Orkin offers mosquito control services. They are one of the best mosquito control companies on the market, and they offer various services to keep your home and yard mosquito-free. Orkin’s mosquito control plans are tailored to your specific needs, and they include perimeter treatment, inspection and sealing, and monitoring.
Our Verdict: Comprehensive Coverage at a Premium Price
Orkin stands out with a broad spectrum of pest control services, from general pest plans to specialized treatments for pests like bees, wasps, and carpenter ants. Their expansive geographic coverage ensures that most homeowners in the U.S. can access their services, except for a few states.
However, their franchise model can sometimes lead to inconsistencies in service delivery across different locations. The lack of an online chat feature may pose challenges for those looking for instant online support, and while their services are comprehensive, they come at a premium price, especially when compared to other pest control companies.
DIY Pest Control
Dealing with pests on your own? Often, basic measures can do the trick. Dive into these DIY guides to kickstart your journey towards a pest-free home:
- How to Get Rid of Rats Outside
- How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes Indoors and Out
- How to Get Rid of Chipmunks
- 11 Best Mosquito Control Products of 2023
Other Pest Control Companies to Consider
Still weighing your options beyond Orkin? Take a look at these other pest control providers for a broader perspective:
- Aptive Pest Control Review
- Hawx Pest Control Review
- Mosquito Hunters Pest Control Review
- Mosquito Joe Pest Control Review
- Mosquito Nix Pest Control Review
- Mosquito Shield Pest Control Review
- Mosquito Squad Pest Control Review
- Terminix Pest Control Review
When to Call a Pest Control Pro
Pests, whether they’re buzzing, biting, or simply lurking around, are more than just a nuisance. They can carry harmful diseases and degrade the comfort of your living spaces. When conventional deterrents and DIY solutions fall short, it’s crucial to turn to professionals.
Thankfully, your local Orkin branch is ready to tackle nearly any pest issue that’s bugging you.
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