Content updated: July 1, 2026

Key takeaways

  • Professional pest control is typically the most effective solution for active infestations, compared to DIY pest control methods.
  • DIY vs professional pest control often comes down to whether you're dealing with a minor nuisance pest or a full-blown infestation that requires expert treatment.
  • High-risk pests like termites, rodents, and bed bugs should never be handled with DIY methods, as they can cause costly property damage and pose health risks.
  • Recurring pest activity, structural damage, or large pest populations are strong signs that it's time to call a professional pest control expert.
  • Professional pest control helps eliminate the root cause of infestations, reduces guesswork, and can provide long-term protection backed by service guarantees.

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DIY pest control pros and cons

Professional pest control pros and cons

How to decide when to hire a professional or use DIY pest control

Signs you should call in the professionals

When unwanted pests invade your home, you have two choices: tackle the problem yourself or hire an expert. Deciding between DIY vs. professional pest control usually comes down to balancing your budget against the severity of the infestation. We spoke with Tom Dobrinska, Terminix Technical Service Manager and Board Certified Entomologist, about weighing the costs, convenience, and safety of do-it-yourself pest control vs. professional pest control so that you can choose the best solution for your home.