When it comes to pest control, there isn't a product or a process that will remedy every situation. Do-it-yourself pest control products can work, but the solution should fit the problem, and you will need to consider the situation and assess the risks involved. 

The thing to consider is the scale and type of the infestation. Let's look at a few typical situations. For our first example, if you notice a few errant ants in your kitchen, then a DIY plan of attack will probably do the trick. Plenty of methods for dealing with these types of problems include traps, store-bought pesticides, and homemade solutions. They should be effective if you follow the packaging or directions correctly.

Sometimes in this situation, the errant ants are really part of a colony behind your dishwasher or stove. This means that even if your DIY solution works today, you may still have a recurring pest issue on your hands. If you notice that the insects keep returning, there might be a bigger issue with many insects in your home, and it may be too late to implement a DIY solution. You might have to bring in a professional so that they can attack the problem at its source.

A second common scenario involves risk. For example, if a large wasp nest grows in your attic or walls or in the eaves of your house, you would likely want a professional with experience dealing with stinging insects. A similar situation might exist with wood-destroying insects like termites, and the risk of not eliminating them is likely too much for the casual "DIYer."

Lets Review the basics for DIY Pest Control Solutions:

Cost: Regarding cost, professional exterminators will have higher price tags than DIY hacks. One-time pest control services typically range from $300 to $600, while many DIY methods can be as low as $20 to $50. However, if your DIY attempts fail to address the infestation's root cause, you might spend more money on various solutions than you would have by simply calling in a professional. What can also happen is that the DIY solutions make the professional pest control efforts more difficult buy driving the insects deeper into your home where the sprays can't reach. It's worth considering this aspect before you embark on a DIY pest control project.

Convenience: DIY pest control can be as easy as purchasing a single product from your local store. Sometimes, you may not even need to leave your house, as many DIY hacks use everyday household items. Nevertheless, professional pest control also offers convenience. By entrusting the extermination to a professional, you will not have to deal with with having the right equipment, correctly using products, or running out of supplies.

Safety: DIY pest control products may contain harsh chemicals not commonly found in your home. Incorrect or excessive use of these products can pose a safety risk to yourself, your pets, your children, and other household members. Hiring a professional significantly reduces the chances of harming anyone's health or well-being.

Guarantee: Typically, pest control companies offer service guarantees, ensuring that they will return to your home and provide another service free of charge if your pest problem persists. DIY products may or may not come with a guarantee of effectiveness.

In summary: 

As a good rule of thumb, you should be able to DIY your pest control if dealing with a few non-wood boring insects. On the other hand, if the pests carry a significant risk of injury or disease or could cause significant structural damage, then it is best to call in the experts.