Termite Infestation on the Rise

The United States of Termites…How the tiny, traveling pests are taking over—and where they are going next.  Termite Season has begun and homeowners in the south are already on high alert, but they’re not the only ones some unexpected states are seeing alarming termite activity… Should I have a termite policy? 

At the time of sale, the prospective buyer can and should have a termite inspection done . As a realtor, I have had several homes with signs of termites.  If you live in the south, and some places even in the north, you definitely need some protection against termites. I ran across a Bob Villa article about termites and it was very interesting…

Termites are in a class of their own.  When left unchecked,  they are some of the most destructive pests that can infest a home.  They can cause lasting structural damage for a house, making it uninhabitable and costing the homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs. Getting rid of termites is no easy feat.  While there are some DIY methods that can work for a small colony, it’s hard for the average homeowner to know the true extent of an infestation.  And not fully addressing the problem, only delays inevitable issues.  

Climate changes are a primary force behind this phenomenon. Termites can be difficult to eradicate. A qualified pest expert is needed to fully address the problem. Taking preventive measures is recommended.  In the United States, 45 species of termites fall into one of three categories: subterranean,  drywood, or dampwood termites.  Subterranean termites are responsible for the majority of the damage to structures.  Termites thrive in hot and humid environments. The most prevalent populations of termites are in southern states like Florida and in this article, the Tampa area is also sited high for termites. Termites can also kill trees. 

We have had a Florida Pest Control termite policy over the course of our 20s plus years here. I think the system has been changed out three times. But so far so good. (although last year a trap indicated a sign of termites but the bait took care of them.) I was  once told when I moved to Florida that it’s not whether you get termites is when will you get termites.  So we’ve always kept up our policy, and even though it’s an expensive one,  it’s better to be safe than sorry.  The article goes into more detail about inspection companies. I am going to list the ones that I know of that are pretty popular in our area.  I have found the older the home…the more chances for termites.

Tips for How to Find a Termite Company

• Look for pest control companies that are licensed and insured.
• Read customer reviews specifically for the company’s termite control service.
• Get multiple estimates to find the best price.

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-choose-a-termite-company/

Florida Pest Control: 352-795-1611

Hughes Exterminators: 352-563-6698

Orkin: 352-717-0703

Bush Pest Control: 352-234-4975

Terminix: 833-941-0362

and here’s a link to the full article: How the Termites Are Taking Over —And Where They’re Going Next