How Much Does Yard Mole Removal Cost?

Highlights

• Yard mole removal typically costs between $100 and $550, with the national average cost at $400.

• A number of factors can affect the total cost of mole removal from a yard, such as the level of the infestation, the location of the moles, the service frequency, the mole removal company used, and the cost of labor.

• If a homeowner notices raised ridges or dirt mounds, patches of discolored or dead grass, areas of loose soil, or excessive weed growth, they may have a mole infestation.

• Although a homeowner may be able to trap a single mole, it’s often best to trust a professional to remove multiple moles from a yard and relocate them safely and humanely.

Moles are typically harmless and naturally tunnel under yards, often without being noticed, but if their telltale mounds are creating problems in the yard, it may be time for the homeowner to think about mole control. As moles make their way through the underground world, they push dirt up to clear their tunnels. In some cases, these mole hills can create unsafe walking conditions because of the soft dirt. They can also make mowing the lawn difficult, and depending on where the tunnels run, they can also disturb roots, resulting in dead grass and plants throughout the yard. This can lead homeowners to start wondering how to get rid of moles and how much it’ll cost.

Yard mole removal costs between $100 and $550, according to Angi and HomeAdvisor, and depends on the method of mole removal as well as the amount of damage they've done as well as the extent of the repairs needed. If there is extensive damage to the yard or landscaping (such as damage to sprinklers, root systems, or lawn mowers), it can cost up to $2,000, and possibly more, to remedy problems caused by yard moles. This guide will examine the main factors that contribute to yard mole removal costs, the different types of mole removal methods, the main signs of a mole infestation, and tips on how to save money and find a mole removal professional.

Factors in Calculating Yard Mole Removal Cost

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Ground mole removal ranges in price because there are a few different methods that can be used to remove moles, such as traps, bait, and fumigation. Homeowners can also use natural pest treatments and preventive measures to keep moles from creating or returning to tunnels in the lawn. Other factors that impact yard mole removal cost include the infestation level, the amount of labor required, pest control cost, and the location of the mole that needs to be removed.

Infestation Level

The infestation level significantly impacts the cost of mole removal, because homeowners are typically charged $50 to $80 per mole. If there are only a few moles, the cost can stay around $250—for the trap and $50 each for the removal of three moles. Moles are solitary animals, and one mole can live in and tunnel through multiple yards, so it’s rare to have a larger infestation. A typical mole infestation consists of only one to three moles.

Moles have babies in the spring, usually between two and five per litter, and after 4 weeks, the young moles venture out on their own and find their own space.

Mole Location

Moles are most often found in the yard where they tunnel around and build their nests underground. Less commonly, moles can make their way into the house, which makes mole removal more difficult and also more expensive. Removing a mole (or moles) from a garage, basement, or attic will fall in the higher end of the price range due to the increased difficulty of finding and removing the mole from the home. Mole removal from a garage or attic can range from $200 to $350 and $400 to $500, respectively.

Service Frequency

It stands to reason that the more times a pest control company comes to the property, the more expensive it will be. One visit may cost less than $250 and up to $500. More frequent visits can add up, costing $400 to $650 for seasonal removal and as much as $1,200 if pest control for residential or commercial properties is needed monthly.

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Mole Removal Company

Many of the best pest control companies, such as Orkin and Terminix, offer mole removal services. It’s likely that there are also local companies worth looking into to take care of a mole infestation. The cost to remove a mole from a yard can vary from company to company. For example, Orkin offers mole removal services that range from $300 to $500, and Terminix prices run between $400 and $600.

Labor

Once the initial trap or bait is set, the rest of the cost depends on how many moles are killed or captured. After the initial setup cost, which is around $100, the rest of the cost ranges from $50 to $80 for each mole that needs to be removed. Some companies may charge a fee between $40 and $80 per visit to the property.

If the soil is difficult to work with or there are obstacles in the yard that pest control professionals must contend with, the labor costs may go up.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Depending on the situation, there may be additional costs and considerations that come with yard mole removal. Factors like having a company conduct a mole inspection, understanding what (if any) permits are needed, and knowing how much emergency mole removal or landscaping repair will cost can help homeowners budget for the expenses related to mole removal.

Mole Inspection

To determine if mole removal is actually necessary or to determine a course of action, pest control companies typically offer an inspection, which costs between $50 and $100. The specialist will come to the home and assess the damage that’s been done, determine the source of the problem, and then offer suggestions to remedy the situation.

Emergency Mole Removal

Emergency removal for moles isn’t typically needed unless the mole is found in the home, either alive or dead. For emergency removal services, homeowners can expect to pay about $100 above the normal removal cost.

Dead Mole Removal

Unlike bats, skunks, and racoons, moles don’t carry rabies, but they can carry other diseases that are dangerous to humans even if the mole is dead. If a mole is found dead in the house, it will likely fall under emergency mole removal, which costs around $100 plus the $50 to $80 to actually remove the mole, because it will need to be removed as quickly and as safely as possible.

Grub Removal

If grubs are present in the yard, moles can be beneficial because they eat them, keeping the grubs from damaging plants. But if the moles become a problem, getting rid of the grubs can, by extension, help to get rid of the moles. Applying one of the best grub killers to a lawn will expose grubs to harmful bacteria that will ultimately kill them, thereby reducing the amount of food available for moles. Many of the best DIY lawn-care programs (such as Sunday) also offer grub control products that homeowners can apply themselves to reduce the grub population in their yard. Applying milky spore powder is a natural and effective way to rid the yard of grubs as well. The cost to hire a professional to remove grubs from the yard will fall between $80 and $200 for a onetime treatment.

Landscaping Repair

While the cost to remove moles in lawns is relatively low, the cost to repair the damage they have done can be much more expensive. When moles tunnel through the yard, they not only create molehills, but their tunneling can cut the root system of the grass, and when it dies, it can reveal a veiny network of tunnels spanning the yard. Moles can also do damage to sprinkler systems, trees, and other plants. If homeowners have invested money in their lawn and landscaping, it can be hard to see it destroyed and stomach the additional cost of having one of the best lawn-care services repair it. The following are some common landscaping projects that go alongside mole removal and their average cost.

Soil Type

The cost to remove rodents and pests often relates to the difficulty level of the removal. If the soil in the yard is hard or difficult to work with, making mole removal harder, the cost will likely increase to account for the added labor.

Permits

The best wildlife removal services are likely required to have certain permits to operate, but in some areas, homeowners are required to obtain an animal removal permit. In most states, a permit isn’t needed to remove small mammals like moles, mice, or squirrels, but it’s important for homeowners to check with state and local wildlife agencies to be sure. If the home is part of a homeowners association, the governing laws may lay out removal requirements.

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Preventive Maintenance

While moles do offer some benefits, like aerating the soil and eating unwanted insects and grubs, they can wreak havoc on a lawn. To prevent mole destruction, homeowners can take preventive measures that can keep moles out of the lawn and garden beds. The cost of preventive measures can vary widely, from the cost of purchasing repellents such as a bag of coffee or a lavender plant to having one of the best landscaping companies install wire mesh around the property. The following are common preventive measures for both DIYers and pros.

• Dig a trench. Digging a trench around the area that needs to be protected and lining it with wire mesh or metal sheets can keep moles from tunneling into the area. The cost depends on how much material is needed. This can be a DIY project, or a landscaping company may be able to get the job done.

• Cover the garden with wire mesh. Wire mesh is effective not only in lining trenches but also in covering the soil in a garden. When it’s placed on top of the soil, it prevents moles from pushing mounds of dirt up and into the garden. Wire mesh can also be laid under new turf to protect larger areas.

• Get rid of their food. Moles are carnivores that feed on insects and grubs, which means they’re not intentionally coming for the grass or plants. Because moles disturb root systems as they hunt for food and seek shelter, plants are an unfortunate casualty. Getting rid of their food source by using natural pesticides or milky spore powder, encouraging birds to come to the yard, or introducing nematodes that eat grubs can discourage moles from returning.

• Use plants. Moles avoid certain plants like daffodils, marigolds, lavender, garlic, and shallots because they don’t like the smell. Planting these around the border of the yard or in garden beds can prevent moles from taking up residence.

• Apply repellents. Beyond plants, other natural and chemical products can repel moles and make them seek out other yards. DIY repellent sprays can be made with vinegar, cayenne pepper, and garlic. Coffee grounds can also deter moles. Ultrasonic sounds repel moles as well, so ultrasonic devices can be placed in the yard as a deterrent. These can be purchased at most hardware or home improvement stores.

Photo: istockphoto.com

Types of Yard Mole Removal Services

Yard mole removal cost largely depends on the type of yard mole removal services used to rid the yard of moles. Three removal strategies—baiting, fumigating, and trapping—are the most common and depend on the individual situation. Bait is the least expensive method, but it also comes with more uncertainty than traps or fumigation.

Bait

Poisonous bait can be left out for moles with the end goal of exterminating them. Setting out poisonous bait costs about $50 but can cost up to $100, so it’s the most cost-effective way of getting rid of moles, but it can also be dangerous to children or pets if they come in contact with it. It does kill the moles, so it’s not the most humane way to get rid of them, and there’s also no guarantee that the mole will eat the poison.

Fumigation

Fumigation essentially fills the mole tunnels with toxic gas, killing the moles. To be effective, the chemicals must travel through the mole tunnels, which typically span 2 to 3 yards—so neighbors may need to give their permission. Fumigation must be done by a professional, and exterminator cost is between $300 and $500, although it can cost up to $1,000 for larger or more complicated jobs.There may also be a charge for removing the dead moles left in the tunnels after fumigation.

Traps

There are two types of traps used for mole removal. One type kills the mole, and the other traps the mole so it can be released in a different location, but their designs vary widely. The best mole trap will depend on the specific situation and the homeowner’s goals.

Traps are typically placed underground and set up in the mole’s tunnels. Most mole traps are designed with a spring-loaded mechanism that’s triggered when the mole runs into the trap. When the trap is triggered, it will catch the mole, either killing it or capturing it for release.

Mole traps can cost between $15 and $100, depending on the style of trap and its features. To have a professional set traps typically costs $100, and then they’ll charge a fee of $50 to $80 per mole for removal. Trap and release is the most humane method of mole removal.

Do I Need Yard Mole Removal?

Trying to figure out what animal is digging holes in the yard can be difficult—but moles make it fairly easy to recognize when they’ve moved in and when it’s time to remove them. While moles can be present in a yard without the homeowner ever knowing, they need to be removed only if they are causing unsightly raised ridges or dirt mounds, killing the grass or plants, creating loose soil, or causing increased weed growth. Sometimes people can confuse moles and voles, so it’s important to determine which rodent is actually the problem before deciding on a course of action. The following are common signs of a mole in a yard.

Raised Ridges and Dirt Mounds

Yard moles often leave behind their telltale web of raised ridges, dirt mounds, and mole holes. These signs not only cause unsightly damage to the yard, but they can also pose a dangerous tripping hazard, especially for children or anyone with mobility issues. The uneven ground created by mole hills and tunnels can also make mowing the lawn uncomfortable as the lawn mower bounces over them. If a homeowner sees or feels these signs, the moles will need to be removed, and the pest control price may be worth it.

Patches of Discolored or Dead Grass

When moles tunnel through the ground, they often disrupt the root system of grass and other plants. If there are patches of dead or discolored grass around the yard, moles may be present even if their tunnels aren’t visible. Lawn reseeding can be very expensive, running between $436 and $1,689, so it may be best for homeowners to get rid of moles before they create an even larger problem.

Areas of Loose Soil

In addition to being unsightly, mole tunnels and mounds create areas of loose soil that can create unstable footing and make it difficult for residents to walk across the yard. These areas can be packed down by using a shovel or simply tamping them down by foot, but doing so creates more work for the homeowner. If loose soil is an issue, it might be time for a homeowner to look into yard mole removal services.

Increased Weed Growth

When mole tunnels and mounds are present, the lawn mower will often scrape the top layer off, creating the perfect place for weeds to grow. Increased weed growth in a yard can be a sign that the moles are getting out of hand and need to be removed.

Yard Mole Removal: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

Unlike the removal of other animals, like skunks and squirrels, mole removal is a little more DIY-friendly, but it still may be helpful to bring in a professional. Homeowners can buy mole traps—either live traps or eliminator traps—and place them in the mole tunnels, where the moles are most likely to go into the trap. Once the mole is trapped or killed, it will need to be relocated or disposed of safely. It’s also important for a homeowner to wear appropriate protective gear like gloves and long pants regardless of whether or not the mole is alive.

Hiring a professional comes with a relatively low cost, and a pro will have the tools, skills, and knowledge needed to identify the best spots to place the traps as well as the best way to dispose of the mole once it’s caught.

Regardless of whether the homeowner tackles DIY mole removal or hires a professional, it’s important for them to keep pets and children away from the area when the traps are set. Eliminator traps are designed to move swiftly and kill the animal instantly, making them dangerous for both pets and children. Live traps are less dangerous, but they will still need to be left alone to be effective.

How to Save Money on Yard Mole Removal Cost

Dealing with lawn and garden pests can be frustrating, but saving some money can make it a little more bearable. Sometimes moles don’t actually need to be removed. Instead they can be repelled from the yard using natural and chemical methods that can cost less than actually calling a pest control company to come and remove them. Consider these tips for saving money on yard mole removal costs.

• Use sound to deter moles. Ultrasonic devices placed around the yard can emit a sound that’s unpleasant to moles and may persuade them to pack up and move elsewhere. These can be purchased at most hardware or home improvement stores.

• Put up birdfeeders. Installing birdfeeders will encourage birds to come into the yard and eat the grubs that moles feed on. This is also beneficial to the birds, as it helps them find food and increases their chances of survival.

• Get some mole deterrents. Spread natural or chemical mole deterrents around the yard to encourage them to move to a new location. The best mole repellents can encourage moles to make their homes elsewhere.

• Buy mole-repellent plants. Moles dislike the smell of lavender, garlic, shallots, daffodils, and marigolds, so planting any of these in your yard may repel any moles.

• Shop around. Ask for quotes from a few different mole removal companies, and compare them to find a lower cost.

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Questions to Ask About Yard Mole Removal

Any time a professional comes to a home to provide a service, it’s important for a homeowner to ask questions and know exactly what is being provided and how much it will cost as well as any homeowner responsibilities there may be. Below are some questions homeowners can ask to help make the process go smoothly.

• Are you licensed?

• Do you have the proper insurance?

• Do you guarantee your services?

• Will you come back if the mole returns, and will there be an additional charge?

• Do you offer an inspection, and if so, what is the cost?

• Do you use humane methods to remove the moles?

• Do you charge a flat fee, or do you charge per mole?

• Do you use chemicals?

• Can I use the lawn after you set traps, lay bait, or spread a deterrent?

• What method will you use to remove the moles?

• Do I need to do anything before or after the removal to prepare the yard or protect it in the future?

FAQs

Mole removal isn’t necessarily something that many homeowners are familiar with. But when moles do make themselves known, there are likely a lot of questions that accompany them. The following frequently asked questions and their answers can help homeowners better understand moles and mole removal.

Q. What are the signs of a mole infestation?

As moles tunnel through the yard, they leave behind certain telltale signs. These include raised ridges and mounds, patches of dead grass, an increased number of weeds, and areas of soft soil.

Q. Will yard moles go away on their own?

It depends. Sometimes moles will stay in a yard for a while and then move on; other times they’re just passing through; and still other times they may just stay. To encourage moles to go away on their own, homeowners can use deterrent and repellent methods like planting certain plants that moles don’t like, including lavender and daffodils. Other methods include using ultrasonic devices and applying natural or chemical deterrents.

Q. How deep do moles dig?

Moles create tunnels at different depths for different purposes. Surface tunnels—the ones that create raised ridges on a lawn—connect to deeper tunnels that are between 3 and 12 inches below the surface and compose the mole’s main tunnels. Tunnels can be as deep as 40 inches below the surface.

Q. Are yard moles dangerous?

Yard moles are not dangerous. In fact, they are actually very beneficial for aerating and distributing nutrients to the soil as well as helping to control the insect population. They are antisocial creatures and spend most of their lives underground, going unnoticed by humans and many other animals. The danger they pose is directed at the lawn, and if they are digging surface tunnels that create trip hazards or disturbing the root system of the grass and killing it, it might be time to call a wildlife removal company.

Q. Who do I call to get rid of moles in my yard?

The big-name pest control companies like Orkin and Terminix can remove moles from your yard. It’s likely that there is a local company that can remove moles from the yard as well. You can also contact your local wildlife protection agency to see if it has any mole removal company suggestions.

Q. How do I prevent moles in my yard?

Rather than searching “How to kill moles in my yard,” you may want to consider learning how to prevent moles from living in your yard in the first place. You can help keep animals out of your garden by learning what they don’t like. For example, to keep moles away, you can add plants that they don’t like (including lavender and daffodils), apply natural or chemical deterrents, place ultrasonic devices around the yard, dig a trench around the yard and install wire mesh below the surface of the yard, and reduce the number of grubs available for them to eat.

Sources: HomeAdvisor (1 and 2), Angi, Fixr, Pest Strategies, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife