What this covers
Termite treatment starts with an inspection: the technician looks for mud tubes on the foundation, damaged or hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings and the moisture that draws termites in. Treatment is done by a licensed applicator, usually as a treated zone in the soil around the foundation, a ring of in-ground bait stations, or both, with spot treatment of infested wood where it fits. Careful work also deals with the conditions that invite termites back: wood touching soil, leaks, and mulch or grade piled against the siding. Monitoring visits confirm the activity has stopped.
When to call
- Mud tubes on the foundation, piers or crawlspace walls.
- Swarming insects or piles of shed wings near windows and doors in spring.
- Wood that sounds hollow, blisters under paint or crumbles when probed.
- A sale, refinance or rebuild that calls for a termite inspection.
What to expect
- InspectThe technician checks the foundation, crawlspace, attic and wood trim for activity and moisture.
- PlanYou get a written plan describing the treatment method, the areas treated and the follow-up schedule.
- TreatA licensed applicator treats the soil, installs bait stations or treats infested wood.
- MonitorReturn visits check the stations and the structure until activity has stopped.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Is it a soil treatment or bait stations?
It depends on the house, the soil and the termite species. A soil treatment puts a treated zone around the foundation; bait stations are placed in the ground and checked over time. Some homes get both.
Do I need to leave the house?
Usually not for exterior soil or bait treatment. The company tells you in advance about any preparation, access it needs, or areas to keep pets and children away from.
Does treatment repair the damage?
No. Treatment stops the termites; damaged framing, sills and trim are repaired separately by a carpenter once the activity is under control.
Related: Termite damage repair · Rodent exclusion · Dry rot repair · All pest and wildlife damage
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.