Hart Pest Control

Pest control costs in Texas typically range from $150 to $350 for a one-time treatment, depending on property size and pest type. Quarterly plans usually run $100–$200 per visit. Termite treatments and fumigation cost more, often $500–$2,500 depending on the severity and method used.

Key questions include: Are you licensed by the Texas Department of Agriculture? What is your TPCL number? What specific treatment do you recommend and why? What products will you use? Do you offer a guarantee or warranty? Are your technicians certified applicators? What preparation is needed on my part?

Most pest control companies offer re-treatment guarantees — if pests return between scheduled visits, they will re-treat at no additional charge. This is standard with ongoing service plans. For one-time treatments, ask about the warranty period. Persistent issues may indicate entry points that need sealing or environmental factors that need addressing.

An inactive license means the company has not renewed their TPCL with the Texas Department of Agriculture. This could be due to business closure, failure to meet insurance requirements, or voluntary non-renewal. Companies with inactive licenses cannot legally perform pest control services in Texas.

The TDA issues licenses with specific category codes: P (General Pest Control), T (Termite Treatment), L (Lawn & Landscape), W (Wildlife Removal), C (Crack & Crevice), S (Structural Fumigation), and D (Waste Disposal). Each category authorizes different types of pest management work.

General pest control (Category P) covers common household pests including cockroaches, ants, spiders, silverfish, earwigs, crickets, centipedes, and occasional invaders. Some companies include mosquito and flea treatments in their general service, while others offer these as add-ons.

Texas has three main termite types: Eastern subterranean termites (most common, found statewide), Formosan subterranean termites (aggressive species in Southeast Texas and coastal areas), and drywood termites (found in attics and furniture, mainly in South and Coastal Texas). Each requires different treatment approaches.

Most professional lawn treatments are pet-safe once dry, usually within 1–2 hours. Granular products may require watering in and drying before allowing pet access. Let your technician know you have pets so they can select appropriate products and advise on re-entry timing.

The striped bark scorpion is the most common species in Texas. Its sting is painful (similar to a bee sting) but rarely medically significant for healthy adults. Children, elderly individuals, and those with allergies may have stronger reactions. If stung, apply ice and monitor for unusual symptoms. Seek medical attention for severe reactions.

Texas pest control is regulated by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) under the Texas Structural Pest Control Act. All pest control businesses must hold a TPCL license, employ a certified applicator, maintain insurance, and follow specific rules for pesticide application, record keeping, and consumer protection.

Heat treatment involves raising the temperature of an infested area to 130–145°F using industrial heaters. It is the most effective treatment for bed bugs and can also treat drywood termites in localized areas. The high temperature kills all life stages including eggs. No chemicals are used, and rooms can typically be re-occupied the same day.