Pest control in Georgia

What to know about pest control in Georgia

Termites and fire ants are both widespread in Georgia. Termites can quietly damage a house, and fire ants can sting people and pets in the yard. Georgia's Department of Agriculture licenses pest control companies and requires a written contract for their work.

Common pests in Georgia

University of Georgia Extension publishes guidance on these pests for Georgia homeowners.

• Subterranean termites. These are the most common termites in Georgia. Winged swarmers usually appear in spring, from about February through April, and mud tubes on the house are another sign. UGA advises having a pest control company inspect the home if you suspect termites. See our page on termites.
• Formosan termites. This invasive termite is rare in Georgia, but infestations have been found at a number of sites since the early 1990s, often linked to old railroad crossties used in yards. Unlike native termites, Formosan termites swarm at night in late May or early June and are drawn to lights.
• Fire ants. Imported fire ants are under quarantine in almost every Georgia county except the far northeast. They can sting repeatedly, and colonies near homes sometimes forage indoors. Get emergency care for chest pain, heavy sweating or trouble breathing after stings. See our page on ants.

Who licenses pest control companies in Georgia

The Georgia Department of Agriculture, through its structural pest control program, licenses pest control companies and certifies their operators. The department's consumer information page links to its online license lookup and explains that you can also call to verify a company or individual. It also notes that contracts are required for all structural pest control services, including termite treatments.

How to check a company before you hire

1. Ask to see the company's Georgia pest control business license, and confirm it with the Department of Agriculture's lookup.
2. For termites, ask which termite they found and what evidence shows it, and which treatment they recommend.
3. Read the written contract before you sign. Check what it covers, how many follow-up visits are included and what the warranty promises.
4. Read reviews from other Georgia customers. If you've used a company, you can write a review, and you can read how reviews work.