Terminix is an industry titan that’s been safeguarding homes and businesses for over 95 years. As one of the nation’s largest pest control companies, it boasts an extensive reach, covering a vast array of pests across almost every state. Yet, the question remains: Is Terminix the best fit for your pest control needs?
Dive into this Terminix review as we dissect what the company offers, its strengths, potential drawbacks, and whether it’s the right protector for your home.
- Terminix at a Glance
- Terminix Highlights
- Terminix Lowlights
- Terminix Pricing
- How to Get an Instant Quote and Order Service Online
- Buyers Guide to Choosing a Pest Control Company
- FAQ About Terminix
- Our Verdict: Experienced and Specialized, but With Possible Variations
- DIY Pest Control
- Other Pest Control Companies to Consider
Terminix 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) | ✔ (Only paper wasps) |
| Stink bugs | ✔ |
| Termites | ✔ |
| Ticks | ✔ |
| Wildlife (raccoons, opossums, etc) | ✔ |
| How many states do they serve? | 45 (not including AK, MT, ND, SD, and VT) |
| Do they serve commercial properties? | ✔ |
| Service plans offered | |
| One-time service | ✔ |
| Monthly service | ✘ |
| Quarterly service | ✔ |
| Do they have eco-friendly options? | They offer Integrated Pest Management for commercial services. |
| Customer service | |
| 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 | ✘ |
Terminix Highlights
Ever since its inception nearly a century ago, Terminix has solidified its position as a powerhouse in the realm of pest control. Below, we highlight some of the key features that set Terminix apart:
Termite Specialization
Terminix provides comprehensive solutions for various common pests, but it is their termite services that truly set them apart. Terminix’s legacy in termite control, coupled with its commitment to employing cutting-edge techniques and offering robust guarantees, makes it a formidable option for anyone seeking to protect their home from these wood-destroying pests.
Recognizing that every home is unique, Terminix offers three distinct service plans for termites tailored to cater to different needs and budgets. The crown jewel among these is the advanced plan, which features the Nix & Fix Termite Guarantee, a robust assurance that covers termite damage of up to $250,000.
The process begins with a complimentary evaluation of your home, carried out by a trained Terminix exterminator, who will then recommend a course of action based on your home’s specific needs. This personalized approach ensures that the treatment is effective and cost-efficient.
Multiple Locations and Plans
Terminix’s expansive reach and flexibility in service offerings are two more feathers in its cap. With coverage in 45 states and over 300 locations, Terminix ensures that its high-quality pest control services are accessible to a broad spectrum of customers across the nation.
Moreover, recognizing that one size does not fit all when it comes to pest control, Terminix offers a variety of treatment plans designed to cater to a wide array of needs. Whether you are looking for a one-time pest control service to address a specific issue or seeking a quarterly pest control plan for ongoing protection, Terminix has got you covered.
Additionally, they offer specialized plans, such as termite bundles, that cover other pests and dedicated mosquito services.
Years of Experience
Trust is not given; it’s earned. And Terminix has certainly earned its stripes with a legacy that spans over 95 years. Terminix is one of the most seasoned veterans in the pest control industry. Since its founding in 1927, the company has been developing innovative and effective solutions to address many pest-related challenges.
This wealth of experience has not only allowed Terminix to perfect its craft but also to earn the trust and loyalty of millions of customers across the nation. Over the decades, Terminix has honed its skills, expanded its pest library, and refined its methods to provide some of the most comprehensive and reliable pest control services available.
Additional Services
Beyond its core pest control offerings, Terminix provides a suite of additional services designed to safeguard your home from multiple angles. These services not only address various structural and maintenance needs but also serve as preventive measures against potential pest infestations.
- Attic insulation: Terminix provides attic insulation services using 85% recycled materials. Proper insulation not only helps maintain the temperature of your home but also serves as a barrier against pests that might find their way in through cracks and crevices.
- Crawl space services: Crawl spaces are often overlooked, but they can be a breeding ground for pests, especially if there is water damage or other moisture-related issues. Terminix offers specialized crawl space services to address these issues, ensuring that this critical area of your home remains dry, clean, and pest-free.
- Gutter protection: Gutters clogged with debris can lead to water accumulation, which in turn can attract pests and also lead to water damage. Terminix’s gutter protection services ensure that water flows freely through your gutters, keeping debris out and preventing potential pest infestations.
Terminix Lowlights
Although Terminix is celebrated for its vast pest library, nationwide coverage, and years of experience, it might also have some shortcomings. Here are some areas where Terminix might not meet expectations:
Quality Variability Across Franchises
Managing a vast network of branches across the country presents a considerable challenge in maintaining consistent service quality and customer experience. As such, one significant drawback of Terminix’s expansive reach is the variability in service quality across its numerous franchises.
While one franchise may boast stellar technicians and management dedicated to delivering top-notch service and customer satisfaction, another may fall short due to various reasons, such as a manager having a bad day, inadequate training of staff, or miscommunication.
This inconsistency can lead to a mixed bag of customer experiences, with some receiving exceptional service and others feeling underwhelmed or even frustrated.
No Money-Back Guarantee
In a competitive market, many of the best pest control companies offer a money-back guarantee as a testament to their confidence in their services. Unfortunately, this is an area where Terminix falls short. While they do offer retreatments, if you are not satisfied with the service, they do not provide a money-back guarantee.
For one-time customers, if you are not satisfied with the initial treatment, Terminix offers a retreatment within 30 days of the first treatment. Similarly, for clients on a quarterly plan, retreatments are offered in between scheduled appointments if necessary.
Terminix Pricing
Pricing is crucial when considering any service, and pest control is no exception. Terminix offers a range of pricing options to cater to different needs and budgets. For a standard-sized home in Austin, TX, Terminix costs are as follows:
- One-time treatment: Priced at $249, this one-off service includes a comprehensive interior and exterior inspection and treatment. If pests return within 30 days of your initial treatment, Terminix will come back to address the issue at no additional cost.
- Quarterly pest control: This plan is priced at $129 per quarter or $43 per month. The initial service visit is also charged at $204. It includes an initial inspection, pest treatment, and ongoing treatments scheduled regularly. The plan also comes with the Nix Pest Guarantee, which means that if pests come back between treatments, Terminix will return to address the issue.
It’s worth noting that these prices are specific to a home in Austin, TX, and may vary based on location, property size, and the severity of the pest infestation. Additionally, specialized services such as termite treatment or bed bug removal may incur additional charges.
How to Get an Instant Quote and Order Service Online
To get an instant quote and order a Terminix service online, follow these steps below:
Step 1. On Terminix’s home page, scroll down the homepage until you see the pest control service plans section. Click on “See Pricing.”
Step 2. You will be prompted to enter your address so Terminix can estimate a price for your property.
Step 3. The costs for each plan will appear. Choose the one that best fits your needs and click on “Add to Cart.”
Step 4. After you click on “View Cart”, you’ll be able to continue to checkout and order your service, or you’ll also be able to add more bundle services, like mosquito control.
Step 5. Enter your contact information and proceed to schedule your service appointment. You can also add promo codes for extra savings.
Step 6. After you schedule your service, you’re done! All that’s left to do is enjoy a pest-free home.
States Covered: 45, not including AK, MT, ND, SD, and VT
Pests Covered: All common household pests. It does not cover flies and mites.
Pros:
- Provides specialized services against termite infestation
- Variety of service plans
- Ample state coverage
- Provides additional services besides pest control
Cons:
- Quality of service may vary between franchises
- Does not offer a money-back guarantee
Customer Reviews:
Long-time satisfaction: “We are long-time satisfied customers! The friendly professionalism of their experts is greatly appreciated. A recent inspection and treatment were very informative and effective! Highly recommended!” – Joseph M., Google
Went above and beyond: “The Terminix technician went above and beyond with service. I highly recommend. He was polite and took his time explaining everything, [including] how we can help [and] what to expect. Service was amazing.” – Sarah D., Google
No money-back guarantee: “Showed up, charged me. Left. Then, weeks of an infestation of ants like I’d never seen before, causing my dog to be bitten hundreds of times. No money back…” – Colin M., Google
*Reviews may be lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
Overall rating: 4.6
This rating is based on over 3,300 customer reviews found on Google. The reviews were taken from Austin, TX, Orlando, FL, and Marietta, GA.
Buyers Guide to Choosing a Pest Control Company
Selecting a pest control company is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the quality of your living environment. In this section, we will present some important factors to consider when making your choice.
Your Location
The first and foremost factor to consider when choosing a pest control company is its service area. Make sure that the company services your state and your city. While many pest control companies, including Terminix, have a wide service area, some limitations exist.
| States | Cities |
| Florida (FL) | Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville |
| Georgia (GA) | Atlanta |
| Missouri (MO) | Kansas City, St. Louis |
| North Carolina (NC) | Charlotte |
| Texas (TX) | Austin, Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio |
Unfortunately, if you live in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, or Vermont, Terminix won’t be able to treat your home as they do not have service locations in these states.
Pests Covered
Different companies may specialize in different types of pests, and it’s important to ensure that the company you choose is equipped to deal with the specific pest problem you are facing. For example, many companies do not offer wildlife control, while others are among the best companies for mosquito control.
Checking the pests a company covers is usually quite easy and can typically be found on the company’s website. For instance, while Terminix offers a wide range of pest control services, they do not treat flies and mites.
Eco-Friendly Options
For those who value a more natural approach to pest control that minimizes environmental harm, it is important to check whether a company offers eco-friendly options.
Currently, Terminix uses Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices to reduce the use of pesticides. IPM is a comprehensive approach that uses a combination of techniques, such as monitoring, prevention, and controlled use of pesticides, to manage pest populations in the most eco-friendly manner possible. However, it’s important to note that there are no 100% natural solutions offered by Terminix.
If having a completely natural solution is a priority for you, it may be necessary to seek out a specialized provider that offers organic or chemical-free pest control services.
Customer Testimonials
Customer testimonials can be a valuable resource when evaluating the quality of service provided by a pest control company, especially when there are many different franchises. Reviews from platforms like Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot offer insights into the experiences of other customers, which can help you make a more informed decision.
Remember to look at various review sources and consider the overall trends rather than focusing on one or two particularly positive or negative reviews.
Cost
Cost is often one of the most important factors when choosing a pest control company. The cost of pest control services can vary significantly depending on several factors:
- Type of pests: Specialized treatments for pests like bed bugs and termites tend to be more expensive than general pest control services.
- Size of property: The size of your property will also impact the cost of pest control services. Larger properties typically require more materials and labor, which will increase the overall cost.
- Severity of infestation: The severity of the pest infestation can also affect the cost. More severe infestations may require multiple treatments or more intensive treatments, which will increase the cost.
FAQ About Terminix
Does Terminix Provide a Money-Back Guarantee?
No, Terminix does not offer a money-back guarantee. However, they do offer a satisfaction guarantee, which means they perform retreatments for clients.
If you are a one-time customer, they offer retreatments if you’re unsatisfied with the service within 30 days after the initial treatment. If you are a quarterly plan client, they offer retreatments in between scheduled appointments if necessary.
Does Terminix Offer Free Inspections?
Yes, Terminix does offer free initial termite inspections. A termite control professional from Terminix will inspect your home to look for common signs of termites, like droppings, and any existing termite damage. This initial inspection is offered at no cost to you. However, if you are looking for follow-up or annual inspections, there will be a charge.
They also perform initial general pest inspections for free, but it’s a good idea to check with your local branch.
Will Terminix Get Rid of Rodents?
Yes, Terminix does offer rodent control services. Their trained professionals will inspect your home, looking for signs of rodent activity and potential entry points. This thorough inspection helps them understand the extent of the infestation and identify any areas where rodents may enter your home.
Based on the inspection, Terminix will customize a rodent control program specifically for your situation. This may include a combination of trapping, baiting, and sealing entry points to help get rid of the rodents in your home and prevent new ones from entering.
Our Verdict: Experienced and Specialized, but With Possible Variations
Terminix is undoubtedly a big name in the pest control industry, with over 95 years of experience under its belt. They offer many advantages, such as multiple locations, termite specialization, and a comprehensive range of additional services. 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 may lead to variations in service quality across different locations. While some branches may offer stellar technicians and management, others may not meet the same standard, leading to possible client dissatisfaction.
DIY Pest Control
Contemplating handling a pest invasion by yourself? Sometimes, simple actions can yield significant results. Embark on a journey towards a pest-free haven with these DIY guides:
- How to Get Rid of Black Widow Spiders
- How to Get Rid of Chipmunks
- 11 Best Mosquito Control Products of 2023
- 14 Ways to Eliminate Conditions that Attract Rodents
Other Pest Control Companies to Consider
If you’re on the fence about whether Terminix is the right fit for you, it might be a good idea to weigh all your options before making a decision. Explore our other reviews that profile a range of pest control companies, each with its own strengths, weaknesses, and unique offerings:
- Orkin Pest Control Review
- Hawx Pest Control Review
- Aptive Pest Control Review
- Mosquito Joe Pest Control Review
When to Call a Pest Control Pro
Pests, whether they’re scuttling, slithering, or silently invading, can cause more than just sleepless nights. They can bring diseases, damage your property, and diminish the quality of your daily life.
If you feel like store-bought traps and homemade remedies are not doing the trick, it’s time to contact a local Terminix branch to offer you some peace of mind.
Main Image Credit: AndreyPopov / Canva Pro / License
