Exterminators charge $400 to $600 on average for rodent removal, but the price can go up to the thousands depending on the size of your home, the type of pest, and the extent of the infestation. Bats, racoons, and squirrels are typically the most expensive rodents to eradicate.

The longer rodents live inside the home, the higher the chance they will cause structural damage. Rodents are notorious for chewing through walls and destroying insulation. They can also chew through electrical wiring, increasing the risk of fire. So, besides the cost of the extermination, you may be dealing with several other costly repairs.

• The average cost to repair drywallis $100 to $400 per hole.
• Ceiling damage repair costs $50 to $100 per square foot.
• Running new electrical wiring costs $4 to $9 per square foot.
• The cost to replace ductwork is $25 to $55 per linear foot.
• Cabinet repairs cost $120 to $600.

Once the infestation is completely removed, ongoing preventative pest control service costs about $400 to $950 per year.

Yes, many pest control services have the knowledge and tools to safely remove dead animals from your home, ensure they are disposed of properly, and resolve any lingering odor problems. They should also locate and seal the animals' entry points to help prevent future infestations. Since some companies may specialize in one type of pest, be sure to discuss your specific problem before hiring to confirm the company is equipped to handle it.

Some signs of rodent or pest infestation include:

• Unusual noises form from inside the walls
• Pets pawing at the walls
• Musky or urine smells
• Nests in the attic, the basement, closets, garage, or any other dark and hidden spots
• Dead rodent bodies
• Droppings along baseboards, under sinks, or in cabinets or pantries
• Tracks or trails on dusty surfaces
• Gnawing holes in walls, ceilings, pipes

The type of pest you are dealing with, the products the pest control technician uses, and the severity of the infestation affect whether you will be able to stay in your house during the pest control service. Some pest control services use fogging pesticides or other airborne products that require you to be out of the home so that you do not inhale toxic fumes.

For mice and other rodent infestations, the technicians typically find and seal the entry points so that no more rodents can get in, leave baits and traps inside the home, and you can remain inside the home during the process.

You can typically stay in the home during routine preventative pest control service.

Follow these guidelines to help you choose the best rodent removal service near you:

• Get 3+ detailed estimates to compare.
• Looks for companies with active licenses and certifications with the State Department of Agriculture and the EPA.
• Review their profiles and feedback on HomeGuide and Google.
• Ask for a list of local references with contact information.
• Hire a company that's been in business for 5+ years and offers a guarantee.
• Get a written pest removal estimate, contract, and warranty before the work begins.
• Never pay in full before the job is complete.

Ask the following questions to ensure you choose the best pest removal service for your needs:

• Are you licensed and insured?
• How long have you been in business?
• Will you provide a list of references?
• What chemicals do you use, and are they safe for pets?
• Have you resolved an infestation like this one before?
• How long will the pest removal process take and what will it involve?
• What does the estimate include?
• Do I need to leave my house, and for how long?
• Will you have to make multiple visits to completely resolve the problem?
• Do you offer a warranty, and what does it cover?