Hiring a pest control technician: what to ask, what to avoid
Two pest control quotes for the “same” job often aren't the same job at all — the gap is usually scope: what's included, what's billed as an extra, and what you confirmed before you booked. Here's how to tell a fair deal from an expensive one, grounded in real pricing data.
The one that catches most people out
Skipping termite inspections
$280 inspection saves $50,000+ in damage.
Questions to ask a pest control technician
Most overcharging hides in the scope, not the headline price. These pin it down before you commit.
- 1
Does your quote include termite treatment, or is that extra?
- 2
Is ongoing monitoring part of the price, or charged separately?
- 3
Will I be charged extra for structural repairs?
- 4
Is fumigation included, or an add-on?
- 5
Can you put the full scope and the final price in writing before any work starts?
Scope disputes are the single most common complaint. A written list is what protects you.
- 6
Is GST included in the price you have quoted?
A sole trader under $75k turnover can legally leave GST off, which makes a quote look about 10% cheaper than a registered business for the same work.
Three checks that take five minutes
Check the licence
For licensed trades, ask for the licence number and confirm it on your state's fair-trading or licensing site before you book. Unlicensed work can void your insurance.
Confirm they're insured
Public liability cover protects you if something gets damaged on the job. If an operator can't confirm it, that's a red flag.
Insist on a written quote
A fair quote itemises the scope, names what's excluded, and states whether GST is included. Verbal quotes are where disputes start.
Other mistakes worth avoiding
Cheapest spray, no warranty
$150 no-warranty costs more than $250 with callback.
What's usually included, and what costs extra
Usually included
- ✓General spray
- ✓Interior + exterior
- ✓Prevention advice
- ✓Warranty (3-6 months)
Usually charged extra
- +Termite treatment
- +Ongoing monitoring
- +Structural repairs
- +Fumigation
What pushes the price up: termite work much more expensive, larger properties, severe infestations, specialist equipment, emergency callouts.
Pest Control questions, answered
How often?+
DIY effective?+
Leave during treatment?+
Already have a quote?
Check it against real pest control prices in 30 seconds, then walk in knowing exactly what to ask.