Mice scratching in the walls at night. Ants taking over your kitchen every spring. Or the really fun one: a termite inspector finding damage during your home sale. Pest problems in the DMV range from seasonal annoyances to "oh no this is structural damage" territory.
Termites are the one you want a professional for immediately - they can do tens of thousands in damage before you see a single bug. A good pest control company does a thorough inspection, identifies entry points, and explains the treatment plan in plain English. They don't just spray and leave.
Annual termite inspections run $75-$150. Treatment for an active infestation can run $500-$3,000+ depending on the method and severity. For recurring issues like ants or rodents, monthly service contracts run $40-$80/month and are usually worth it. Red flag: anyone who can't tell you exactly what chemical they're using and why.