Trusted Pest Control in Northwest Missouri Since 1970

Our Story

For over 50 years, Preferred Pest Control has been the trusted choice for homes and businesses in St. Joseph, Missouri, and the broader Northwest Missouri area. Founded in 1970 by Russell Smith, the business was soon taken over by his son-in-law, Wally Cooperider.

Wally passionately led Preferred Pest Control for decades, building its reputation for reliable service. In 2012, the family legacy continued when his son, Perry Cooperider, and Perry’s wife, Dawn, joined the company. In 2015, Perry and Dawn officially acquired the business, expanding services to include specialized bed bug removal and upholding our commitment to expert pest control. We’re known for being Tough on Pests, Easy on You!

Today, under Perry and Dawn’s leadership, we continue Wally’s tradition of excellence, providing effective termite control and comprehensive pest solutions with a focus on our community.

That’s “The Preferred Way.”

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preferred pest team photo
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preferred pest team photo

Expert Pest Control You Can Trust

We’re dedicated to protecting your home and business with expert pest control solutions. Our professional team works tirelessly to keep your space free of unwanted guests, using proven techniques and the highest standards of care. Whether you’re facing an infestation at home or at the office, our experienced exterminators are committed to providing effective treatments and superior customer service—so you can enjoy a cleaner, pest-free environment. 

We provide pest control that is fast, friendly, and dependable. 
Tough on Pests. Easy on You.

Reviews
5 Star Review

I have had great experiences with this company. If I wasn't happy with something they fixed the situation immediately. Highly recommend!!

Ruth Silvey
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Jenny has been amazing to work with, glad I can trust her with checking my business and any questions (and the whole crew really)

Sara Parks
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

We had Preferred come out to our new construction site & do a pre-treatment for termites. David was professional, on time, courteous, and my grumpy husband really liked him and he doesn't like ANYBODY! We'd both highly recommend using Preferred for any of their services!

Lisa Ashford
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Amanda is amazing! She answered all of my questions and was super helpful!

Aubrey Nelson
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Justin is fantastic. Very friendly and excellent service. He does a great job!

Natalie B
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

I appreciate Preferred Pest: efficient professional problem solvers.

Ann Elkins
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Michael was very informative, answered any questions I had, explained things so I could understand them instead of hitting me with a bunch of professional terms that probably wouldn’t make sense and reassured me of all my options. Definitely made the right choice for pest control!

Jennifer Bransfield
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Updated 6/16/25....Have been using Preferred Pest for several years now for annual termite inspection. David is always pleasant, polite and professional. Definitely our preferred pest control company.

Donn Bonn
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Friendly and thorough. Well pleased with the service!

Cornerstone Church
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

I'm so glad I called Preferred Pest Control when i discovered a little critter hanging out in my house. Will is the friendliest, kindest person. He knows his stuff and he isn't afraid to tackle the scary jobs. He is also kind to the little critters he finds. I could not ask for better! Highly highly recommend Will and Preferred Pest Control.

D Price
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Termite treatment. Guys did a great job very happy with your company and employees who came out.

Frank Hayden
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

We had a spider treatment done and they even knocked down the cobwebs in our basement they are coming back to treat the outside because it was raining that day I would highly recommend, already noticing a difference

Hannah Jean
St Joseph Office