Growing a pest control business isn’t just about offering great service—it’s about making sure the right people know about you and choose you over the competition. If your marketing feels like it’s stuck in neutral, it’s time to get creative. Here are ten marketing strategies that can help you generate more leads, build trust with customers, and increase revenue.
1. Offer Limited-Time Discounts to Create Urgency
People tend to delay booking pest control until the problem gets worse. A well-crafted limited-time offer can push them to take action sooner. Instead of generic discounts, create seasonal promotions tied to specific pest problems. For example, offer “$50 Off Mosquito Control – Book by April 30” right before mosquito season. This gives customers a clear reason to act now.
2. Use Google Local Services Ads to Appear at the Top
Google’s Local Services Ads (LSAs) put your business above standard search results and show a “Google Screened” badge, making your company look more trustworthy. Unlike traditional pay-per-click ads, LSAs only charge you when someone calls or messages your business, which means you’re paying for real leads. To get the best results, encourage happy customers to leave reviews, as Google ranks businesses with strong ratings higher.
3. Create Engaging Social Media Content
Many pest control businesses make the mistake of only posting promotional content on social media. The key to engagement is mixing in educational, humorous, and interactive content. Post short videos showing a technician explaining how to spot termite damage, run a “Guess That Pest” contest where followers identify a zoomed-in image of an insect, or share customer testimonials in a before-and-after format. These types of posts keep people engaged and make your business more memorable.
4. Use Video Marketing to Build Trust and Authority
Customers are more likely to book a service if they feel confident in your expertise. Short, informative videos can help establish that trust. Record clips of technicians explaining common pest problems, demonstrating safe pest control techniques, or answering frequently asked questions. Keep videos under two minutes for better engagement and use captions since many people watch without sound. Upload them to YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and your website for maximum reach.
5. Run Facebook and Instagram Ads Targeted to Homeowners
Social media advertising is one of the most effective ways to reach homeowners who may not yet be actively searching for pest control services but are likely to need them soon. Unlike Google Ads, which target people actively looking for solutions, Facebook and Instagram ads allow you to create awareness, educate potential customers, and keep your business top-of-mind when a pest problem arises. By using highly targeted ad campaigns, you can reach homeowners in specific neighborhoods, age groups, or household sizes that align with your ideal customer base.
To get the best results, avoid generic ads and tailor your messaging to seasonal pest problems. For example, in the spring, run ads focused on homeowners dealing with ants in their kitchens. Use headlines like “Seeing ants in your home? Stop the invasion before it gets worse!” paired with a compelling image of ants crawling on a kitchen counter. In the summer, shift your focus to mosquito control with ads that say “Tired of mosquito bites ruining your backyard?” alongside an image of a family enjoying an outdoor barbecue. If rodent activity spikes in the fall, promote “Rat and Mice Control – Keep Your Home Rodent-Free This Winter!” with a time-sensitive discount to encourage immediate action.
6. Partner with Real Estate Agents and Property Managers
New homeowners and renters often need pest control, making real estate professionals a great referral source. Build relationships with local real estate agents and property managers by offering a free pest inspection for new homebuyers or exclusive discounts for managed properties. Provide them with educational content they can share with clients, such as a checklist on how to spot pest issues before moving in.
7. Use Google Reviews to Outrank Your Competitors
Many customers choose a pest control company based on online reviews, and businesses with a high star rating rank better in Google search results. Make it easy for satisfied customers to leave reviews by sending a follow-up text or email with a direct link. Offer a small incentive, such as entry into a monthly giveaway, to encourage participation. Respond to every review, whether positive or negative, to show potential customers that you value feedback.
8. Create a Referral Program for Existing Customers
Word-of-mouth marketing is one of the most powerful ways to grow your business. Encourage happy customers to refer friends and family by offering a reward, such as a discount on their next service or a free add-on like rodent proofing. Make the process simple by providing a referral link they can easily share via text or social media. The key to success is ensuring customers know about the program through follow-up emails, invoices, and social media reminders.
9. Start a Blog to Improve SEO and Educate Customers
A well-optimized blog can help your website rank higher on Google and attract customers who are searching for pest-related solutions. Write articles on topics like “How to Keep Mice Out of Your Home This Winter” or “Signs You Have a Termite Problem.” Answer common customer questions, and include local references in your content to improve search visibility, such as mentioning specific neighborhoods or seasonal pest issues in your area.
10. Send Out Targeted Email Campaigns
Email marketing is an underrated but highly effective way to stay in front of potential and existing customers. Set up automated emails to remind homeowners about seasonal pest control needs, offer exclusive promotions, and provide helpful tips. For example, send a springtime email titled “Don’t Let Ants Take Over Your Kitchen – Get a Preventative Treatment Now.” Personalize emails with the customer’s name and past services to make them feel more relevant and engaging.
Final Thoughts
Winning more customers isn’t just about running ads or having a website—it’s about using smart marketing strategies that build trust, create urgency, and keep your business top-of-mind. By implementing these ten creative ideas, you can increase visibility, attract more leads, and turn one-time customers into lifelong clients. If you’re ready to grow your pest control business with a marketing strategy that actually works, let’s talk.
