Dealing with pests in your home can be frustrating and downright gross. Cockroaches skittering across your countertops, ants invading your kitchen, mice squeaking in the walls – it’s enough to make your skin crawl!
When an over-the-counter pest control solution fails to solve the problem, it may be time to call in the professionals. Two big brand names in professional pest control are HomeTeam Pest Defense and Terminix.
But which one provides the better service for your home? Here’s an in-depth comparison of HomeTeam Pest Defense and Terminix to help you decide.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | HomeTeam Pest Defense | Terminix |
| Ownership | Rollins, Inc. | ServiceMaster Global Holdings |
| # of Locations | 80+ branches | 300+ branches |
| Pesticides Used | Taexx solutions | Broad range of major brands |
| Inspection Process | 36-point checklist | 12-point process |
| Treatments Offered | Taexx system | Customized with multiple methods |
| Service Guarantee | Retreatment if pests return. Refund if retreatment fails. | Unlimited free retreatments. Refund if issue persists. |
| Contracts | One-time, quarterly, annual | One-time, quarterly, annual |
| Pricing | Defined ranges based on home size | Varies more widely |
| Coverage Area | Primarily east coast and southern states | All contiguous states |
| Key Pests Covered | Roaches, ants, spiders, rodents | Roaches, ants, termites, bed bugs, rodents |
| Termite Control | Detection and spot treatment | Full termite protection systems |
| Wildlife Removal | Not covered | Humane trapping and removal |
Overview Of HomeTeam Pest Defense
HomeTeam Pest Defense was launched in 1996 and is based in Marietta, Georgia. They provide pest control services for homes and businesses across the United States.
Some key facts about HomeTeam:
- Owned by Rollins, Inc., a major pest control corporation
- Over 80 branches in the U.S.
- Treat for common pests like cockroaches, ants, spiders, mice, and more
- Use “Taexx” branded pesticide solutions
- Heat treatments for bed bugs
- Guaranteed treatments or your money back
HomeTeam focuses on customer satisfaction, using green pest control methods whenever possible. Their technicians are well-trained and aim to provide thorough pest inspections and treatments.
Overview Of Terminix
Terminix is one of the largest and most well-known pest control companies in the U.S. Founded in 1927, they provide service throughout the country.
Some key facts about Terminix:
- Owned by ServiceMaster Global Holdings
- Over 300 branches in the U.S.
- Treat for common pests like termites, bed bugs, roaches, rodents, and more
- Offer solutions like termite bait systems and fumigation
- Eco-friendly pest prevention options available
- Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back
With nearly 100 years of experience in pest control, Terminix has a reputation for fast service and effective treatments. Their technicians receive ongoing training to stay up to date on the latest products and techniques.
Pest Control Methods Used
One major difference between HomeTeam and Terminix is the types of pesticides and solutions they use.
HomeTeam relies heavily on its proprietary Taexx system. Taexx uses targeted pesticide sprays, dusts, and baits to eliminate pests. While the active ingredients are standard pesticides, Taexx promises precision placement for effectiveness. HomeTeam states that Taexx products have low toxicity for humans and pets when used as directed.
Terminix technicians have access to a broader range of pest control solutions. This includes termiticides, insecticidal dusts and sprays, gel baits, growth regulators, fumigation, and full heat treatments. They use established brand name products from major manufacturers. Treatment plans are customized based on the type of pest and infestation levels.
For eco-friendly options, Terminix offers their Essentria line. Essentria uses plant-based active ingredients like rosemary oil, peppermint oil, and thyme oil to kill and repel pests. These natural solutions are safe for use around children and pets.
Also Read: Comparison Between Aptive And Ecoshield.
Inspection And Treatment Process
HomeTeam and Terminix take similar approaches to pest control service:
- Inspection – A technician performs a thorough inspection to identify pest issues and access infestation levels.
- Treatment Plan – The technician develops a customized treatment plan based on inspection findings.
- Implementation – Pest control solutions are applied throughout the home, targeting areas of concern.
- Follow-Up – Technicians return as needed to check in, re-apply treatments, and ensure the plan is working.
Where they differ is the specifics of the process:
- Inspection – HomeTeam uses a 36-point inspection checklist for each pest service. Terminix uses a proprietary 12-point inspection process.
- Treatment – HomeTeam focuses on Taexx treatments. Terminix pulls from a broader range of pesticides and solutions.
- Follow-Up – HomeTeam typically includes one follow-up visit. Terminix offers unlimited additional treatments if pests return between regular service visits.
Both companies aim to be thorough, but Terminix seems to provide slightly more extensive and customized treatment plans.
Customer Satisfaction Guarantee
An important consideration for pest control is the service guarantee. You want confidence that the provider will eliminate pests – or you shouldn’t have to pay.
Both HomeTeam and Terminix offer satisfaction guarantees:
- HomeTeam – 100% satisfaction guaranteed. They’ll return to retreat if pests return between scheduled visits. If they still can’t resolve the issue, your service fees are refunded.
- Terminix – 100% satisfaction guaranteed. They’ll quickly return for retreatments if pests return between scheduled service visits. If the issue persists, they will refund charges for the unsuccessful service.
The companies offer similar guarantees. Key differences:
- HomeTeam specifies that refunds apply after retreatment fails, while Terminix refunds after any unsuccessful service visit.
- HomeTeam’s guarantee may depend on the type of pest and service level purchased.
- Terminix offers unlimited free retreatments, while HomeTeam only specifies one.
For the strongest satisfaction guarantee, Terminix appears to have the edge.
Also Read: Key Differences Between Aptive And Greenix
Pricing And Contracts
Pest control services represent a significant, ongoing investment. You’ll want to understand the pricing and contract options before signing up.
Pricing
Both HomeTeam and Terminix use house size, type of pests, and service frequency to estimate costs. Exact pricing is provided after inspection.
However, HomeTeam offers more defined pricing bands:
| House Size | Cost Range |
| Under 1,500 sq ft | $240 – $270 per year |
| 1,500 – 3,000 sq ft | $290 – $370 per year |
| 3,000 – 4,500 sq ft | $320 – $420 per year |
| Over 4,500 sq ft | Contact for Quote |
Terminix pricing is more variable and opaque. Industry sources estimate:
| House Size | Cost Range |
| Under 1,500 sq ft | $300 – $550 per year |
| 1,500 – 3,000 sq ft | $350 – $700 per year |
| Over 3,000 sq ft | $500 – $1,200 per year |
HomeTeam appears to be the more affordable option, with defined lower pricing ranges. However, the total cost can still vary depending on pest severity and treatment details.
Contracts
HomeTeam and Terminix offer similar contract options:
- One-time service
- Quarterly service
- Annual service
The annual contract offers protection for the full year and may come with discounts. One major difference is that Terminix requires an annual agreement for certain services like termite control.
Also Read: Comparison Between Terminix And Clark Pest Control.
Coverage And Treatment Options
HomeTeam and Terminix match up closely on the pests covered and treatments available:
- Common pests covered: roaches, ants, spiders, silverfish, earwigs, rodents, et
- Added coverage for termites, mosquitos, fleas, and ticks
- Treatments: liquid sprays, dusts, baits, traps, heat, fumigation, exclusion
Key differences:
- Bed bugs – HomeTeam offers heat treatment for bed bugs. Terminix uses chemical application, encasements, traps, and heat.
- Wildlife removal – HomeTeam excludes wildlife like raccoons and squirrels. Terminix provides humane trapping and removal.
- Termite control – HomeTeam detects and spot treats termites. Terminix offers full termite protection systems.
- Mosquitos – Terminix provides targeted mosquito treatments. HomeTeam focuses on treating standing water breeding sites.
Terminix comes out ahead on pest coverage, particularly for difficult pests like bed bugs and termites. Their breadth of treatment options is also more expansive.
Service Area
Nationwide availability is important if you move or need to pause/resume service.
HomeTeam provides service in over 80 markets across the U.S. but primarily on the east coast and in the south.
Terminix has over 300 branches covering all contiguous states. Their coverage includes most major metro areas nationwide.
For the widest service area, Terminix is the better choice.
Watch this video of HomeTeam Pest Defense!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
HomeTeam primarily uses their proprietary Taexx branded pesticides. The active ingredients in Taexx are standard pest control chemicals like synthetic pyrethroids. But Taexx promises precision placement of pesticides using techniques like pinpoint spraying.
The main competitors for HomeTeam Pest Defense are other large, national pest control chains like Terminix, Orkin, Rentokil, and Anticimex. Regional and local pest companies also compete with HomeTeam in markets where both operate.
HomeTeam states that Taexx pesticides are low in toxicity for people and pets when used as directed by trained technicians. The products meet federal standards for allowable chemical concentrations. However, any pesticide carries inherent risks and should be used with care around children and food.
No, Orkin has not acquired HomeTeam Pest Defense. HomeTeam remains part of the Rollins corporation. Orkin is owned by its parent company Rollins, so the brands are affiliated, but HomeTeam continues to operate independently.
Conclusion
When comparing HomeTeam and Terminix, Terminix comes out slightly ahead in areas like service guarantees, pest coverage, treatment options, and nationwide availability. However, HomeTeam remains competitively priced, particularly for smaller homes.
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing pest control for your home:
- Pests – Make sure the company covers the specific pests you need to treat.
- Treatments – Look for green, non-toxic options to protect your family.
- Technicians – Choose a company with extensive training for their technicians.
- Guarantee – Opt for unlimited free retreatments if pests return.
- Area – Pick a provider that services your region in case you move.
While pricing is always a factor, effectiveness and satisfaction should be your top priorities when selecting a pest control provider. Focus on a company that offers robust inspection, customized treatments, and guaranteed results.