
What to Expect From Professional Gopher Removal (Step by Step)
Hiring a gopher trapper for the first time? Here's exactly what happens when you call Gopher Champs, from your first phone call to your 60-day warranty. No guesswork, no surprises.
Still deciding between hiring a pro and going DIY? See our pro vs DIY gopher removal guide. Want the shortest timeline to a gopher-free yard? Read the fastest way to get rid of gophers.
Still comparing providers? Compare the best gopher removal companies in Riverside County side by side, pricing, warranties, methods, and response times.
You Call or Request a Quote
The process starts with a quick phone call to (951) 330-7399 or a free quote request through our website. We'll ask a few questions:
- How many mounds do you see?
- How long has the activity been going on?
- Approximate yard size
- Are there pets, kids, or gardens in the area?
This helps us estimate the scope of work and schedule your first visit. Most appointments are available same-day or next-day across all our service areas, including Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, and Hemet.
On-Site Inspection
Our technician walks your entire property to assess the infestation. We look for:
- Fresh vs. old mounds (fresh mounds mean active tunnels)
- Tunnel direction and depth based on soil type
- Damage to irrigation, tree roots, and landscaping
- Entry points and high-activity zones
This inspection is included in the $295 service fee in most areas (which also covers your first gopher caught), there's no separate charge. We explain exactly what we've found and what the plan is before placing any traps.
Trap Placement
We lead with species-specific traps placed directly inside active tunnel systems, not on the surface. This is what separates professional trapping from DIY methods that rely on guesswork. For extensive infestations where trapping could become cost-prohibitive, we also offer underground baiting as a budget-friendly alternative (ideal for properties without pets or small children).
Our approach follows proven trapping methods that deliver a 95%+ success rate. Traps are set below ground level, out of reach of children, pets, and non-target wildlife.
We mark trap locations with small flags so you know where they are. We return in 2 days to check and service the traps.
2-Day Trap Check & Results
Our technician returns in 2 days to inspect the traps, assess results, and address any remaining activity. With a 95%+ success rate on the first visit, most residential properties are cleared quickly. Each additional gopher trapped costs $45.
We document what we've caught and evaluate whether further action is needed. You'll always know exactly where things stand.
This targeted approach delivers fast, measurable results, most residential properties are cleared within a single service cycle. For commercial properties or larger lots in Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, or Winchester, service plans may be adjusted for full coverage.
Job Complete + 60-Day Warranty
Your 60-day warranty begins on Day 1, when we first place the traps. If gophers return within the warranty period, we come back and re-service the area. Each warranty visit resets the 60-day period, so you're always covered.
If gophers return within the warranty period, here's how it works:
- Days 1–30: No service fee, you only pay $45 per gopher (trapping only, same treated area)
- Days 31–60: $150 reduced service fee in most areas + $45 per gopher
Read the full warranty details here.
After service, we recommend reading our long-term prevention guide to keep your property gopher-free beyond the warranty period.
What Makes Gopher Champs Different
We're a family-owned business serving the Inland Empire, not a franchise or a call center. When you call us, you talk to the people who do the work. Here's what sets us apart:
- Trapping-first approach, we lead with trapping for safety and precision, with underground baiting available when the situation calls for it. Learn more about our methods.
- 2-day trap checks with 95%+ first-visit success rate
- Transparent pricing, $295 in most areas (incl. first gopher) + $45/additional gopher, no hidden fees
- 60-day warranty, real coverage, not a sales gimmick
- Qualified Applicator License (QAL) for bait applications + valid business license
We serve French Valley, Temecula, Menifee, and all surrounding cities with the same level of care. Meet our team →
Ready to Get Started?
Call for a free phone estimate or request a quote online. Same-day and next-day appointments available across the Inland Empire.