Compare the highest-rated pest control professionals in Menlo Park, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Smith's Pest Control is a highly-rated, family-owned and operated company known for its effective and eco-friendly pest management solutions. They emphasize customer service and offer both one-time treatments and ongoing preventative programs. Their technicians are highly trained and they serve both residential and commercial clients.
A national brand with a strong local branch, Orkin offers extensive resources and standardized training. They are known for their scientific approach to pest control, including detailed inspections and customized treatment plans. Their commercial division is particularly robust, serving a wide range of industries.
While their service center is in a neighboring city, Truly Nolen is a major provider for the Menlo Park area. They are recognized for their distinctive "Mouse Mobster" and "Rat Zapper" rodent control programs and their thorough, multi-step process for common pests like ants and roaches. They offer free inspections.
The pest control market in Menlo Park is competitive and characterized by high-quality service expectations, reflecting the demographics of the area. Residents and businesses demand effective, safe, and often eco-friendly solutions. Common pests in the region include rodents (due to the proximity to open spaces and creeks), ants, cockroaches, and termites. The market features a mix of well-regarded local companies and established national franchises. Pricing is typically at a premium compared to national averages, with initial inspections often being free. A standard one-time treatment for common insects can range from $150-$400, while more complex services like termite tenting or ongoing wildlife removal can run into the thousands. Competition is strong, driving a focus on customer service, guarantees, and professional certifications.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Menlo Park regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about pest control services in Menlo Park, California.
Due to our Mediterranean climate and proximity to open spaces, the most prevalent pests are rodents (roof rats and mice), Argentine ants, and drywood termites. Rodent activity increases in the fall as they seek shelter, while ant invasions are most common during the dry summer months. Termites are a year-round threat here, but swarming typically occurs on warm days after rain, often in late spring or fall.
Costs vary significantly based on the pest, property size, and service type. A one-time treatment for ants or spiders might range from $150-$350, while initial rodent exclusion can cost $300-$600. Comprehensive termite treatments (like fumigation or local methods) are a major investment, typically starting from $1,500 and going much higher. Always get itemized written estimates, as California law requires detailed contracts for pest control work over $1,000.
Yes. California has strict regulations on pesticide use, especially near waterways like San Francisquito Creek. Many Menlo Park homeowners prefer and seek out Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches, which prioritize non-chemical methods first. Providers must be licensed by the California Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB), and any company proposing fumigation for termites must provide extensive state-mandated disclosures and preparation instructions.
First, verify their California SPCB license online and ensure they carry proper insurance. Look for companies with extensive local experience, as they will understand Menlo Park's specific pest pressures and microclimates. Ask for references in your neighborhood and choose a provider that offers a detailed inspection and a clear, written plan that aligns with IPM principles, rather than just a routine chemical spray schedule.
Drywood termites are the primary structural pest in Menlo Park, as they infest dry wood above ground and do not require contact with soil. Subterranean termites are less common but still present; they require soil contact and build mud tubes. A professional inspection is crucial to correctly identify the species, as treatment methods differ entirely—drywood often requires fumigation or localized heat, while subterranean are treated with soil barriers or bait systems.