Written by

Sarah Noel

February 24, 2024

Edited by

Tamatha Hazen

Fact-checked by

Tom Grupa

Groundhog removal cost

Groundhog removal costs $150 to $300 on average, depending on the method, location, and difficulty. The cost to remove a groundhog is $200 to $350 for the common live trap and relocation method. Woodchuck removal costs typically include a minimum $100 to $200 initial site visit and inspection fee.

Cost to remove a groundhog by method

Prices for groundhog removal vary by the method used. Trapping groundhogs is the most popular and commonly recommended way to get rid of them. Repellents, fumigation, and lethal traps are other removal methods which cost slightly less.

Live trap and relocation

Trapping a live groundhog and relocating it costs $200 to $350 on average. A specialist sets the trap with bait and after a day or so, the hungry groundhog goes after the food and can't come back out. This method is the most humane and least-invasive way to eliminate the problem.

Repellent

Using repellent to remove a groundhog costs $120 to $300 on average for an application all around the home's perimeter. Most pest control companies offer natural repellant granules or sprays, and some apply stronger poisons directly into groundhog holes.

This service may require only one visit, but large infestations will take multiple applications over several visits for up to 6 months.

Fumigation

Groundhog fumigation costs $150 to $275 on average. This method involves lighting gas cartridges and putting them inside the pest's holes, immediately followed by sealing the burrow entrance. This approach can kill all groundhogs inside with no need for disposing of the bodies.

However, if the tunnels are extensive, then the groundhogs can still escape another way. During the day, the groundhogs might not always be inside the holes either. Another downside is that it's unsafe to use these gas cartridges near your home or in areas frequented by pets or children.

Lethal trap

Removing a groundhog through a lethal trap costs $120 to $220 on average. These traps are smaller, cheaper, and kill them quickly after they take the bait in the trap. However, some companies still charge extra to remove the dead body on a second visit.

Cost factors for groundhog removal

Cost factors for groundhog removal include the following:

• Inspection – The initial site visit and inspection costs $100 to $200 on average.

• Method – Exclusion barrier installation to keep groundhogs from entering certain areas of your property is the most expensive removal method with variable rates. Repellants are typically the cheapest.

• Colony size – The number of groundhogs living in your yard impacts the price since removing one animal is much cheaper than removing a group of them.

• Visit frequency – Trapping a groundhog or multiple animals takes 2 or more visits to set the traps and then collect the animals. Each visit has a minimum standard fee. Groundhog removal isn't always possible in a single visit.

• Homeowners insurance – If the damage caused by groundhogs has affected your home, then some pest control companies can bill your insurance.

• Transportation fees – Longer driving distances will raise service fees.

• Afterhours service – Emergency rates are higher for jobs outside of standard business hours and on weekends.

• Cleanup costs – Removing a dead groundhog costs $100 to $150 on average for the cleanup and disposal.

Cost to repair groundhog damage

Groundhogs primarily damage lawns and gardens, but if their burrowing continues, they can dig under fencing and the foundation to cause leaks.

Various repair fees for groundhog damage include:

• Lawn regrading costs $0.40 to $2.00 per square foot.

• Lawn replacement costs $1 to $4 per square foot.

• Sprinkler system repair costs $100 to $400 on average.

• A landscaper charges $25 to $85 to plant a new shrub.

• Foundation repair costs $250 to $800 minimum for repairing a minor crack if the groundhog digging made the foundation settle unevenly. Foundation leak repairs cost $2,000 to $12,000 for greater damages after water penetrates those cracks.

• Fence repair costs $250 to $750.

• Electrical rewiring costs $5 to $17 per square foot.

Related services

Wildlife removal costs $200 to $600 on average to get rid of other animal types, depending on where the infestation is and how many creatures there are.

Common services include:

• Squirrel removal costs $300 to $600. Squirrels can store food in crawl spaces if you don't seal them off after removing groundhogs from under the house.

• Raccoon removal costs $200 to $300. Raccoons like to live in groundhog holes, so you need to plug up all the holes after groundhog extermination.

• Bat removal costs $250 to $600. If groundhogs created holes into your crawl space or basement, then bats can use those same entry holes to enter and roost.

Groundhog removal FAQs

How do you know if you have a groundhog problem? {#how|

You will know that you have a groundhog problem with signs like:

• Big 10" to 12" wide holes in your yard with mounds of dirt nearby

• Plants and veggies in your garden disappearing

• Damage to your fences or shed

• A sinking foundation near these holes in the yard

What are the best ways to get rid of groundhogs?

The best DIY ways to get rid of groundhogs include:

• Traps – A humane groundhog trap used for relocation costs $35 to $100 on average. Use a catch and release trap to catch the groundhog without hurting it. Peanuts or fruit make good bait to lure them inside.

• Lawn stakes – These ultrasonic devices cost $25 to $90 for a set. Repellant stakes have solar panels on top for power to send vibrations underground that disturb groundhogs.

• Repellants – Put things that groundhogs don't like around the holes, such as spicy scents, cayenne pepper spray, or cat litter. Planting oregano and mint herbs in the garden also deters groundhogs.

• Barriers – Another option is to put metal fencing or chicken wire deep into the ground that's harder for them to dig through.

• Poison – This option is common to do in the winter while they're hibernating underground. However, poisons aren't legal in all states and can contaminate groundwater.

Should I remove groundhogs myself?

In most cases, you shouldn't try to remove groundhogs yourself without professional help. Groundhogs can be dangerous when threatened, and there are laws about how you can treat them. Plus, a professional knows the most effective ways to catch them without hurting them or damaging your property.

Do groundhogs attack humans?

Groundhogs typically don't attack humans and aren't dangerous. Most groundhogs fear humans and will run away if they see you. If a groundhog feels trapped or threatened, it might try to bite or scratch to protect itself, and this wild animal can carry diseases. Keep a safe distance.

Can a groundhog kill a dog?

A groundhog is unlikely to kill a dog, but it will fight back if a dog scares them. Groundhogs have sharp claws and teeth to defend themselves. Protect your dog from injuries or diseases by keeping them away from groundhogs.

Who do I call for groundhog removal?

Find someone experienced in groundhog removal by calling:

• A professional wildlife removal service

• Pest control services

• Animal control specialists

• Extermination companies

Getting estimates from groundhog removers

Before calling a groundhog removal service near you, be sure to:

• Get price lists from 3 people who've done this job for 5 years or more.

• Check what people say about them on Google and here on HomeGuide.

• Verify their pest control or wildlife management license and liability insurance.

• Beware of the lowest prices that indicate poor-quality services.

• Keep a copy of their terms of service, warranties, and the estimate.

• Don't make a final payment until after the job is complete.

Questions to ask

Before hiring someone to remove a groundhog from your home, ask them:

• How many years of experience do you have in groundhog removal?

• Can you describe your process?

• Will the removal be humane?

• Do you offer any guarantees or warranties?

• What does your pricing structure look like?

• How long does a typical removal take?

• When can you start the project?

• Can you provide references from past clients?

• Are there any potential risks involved?

• Do you provide clean-up services post-removal?

• What precautions do you take to prevent future infestations?

• How will you ensure the safety of my property?

• Are there any additional services included in the fee?

• Can you explain your after-service support, if any?