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Termite treatment: what drives the cost

Termite quotes differ on method and on what happens after the first treatment. The second part is where most of the money is.

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The short version

What sets the price
The treatment method, the size of the house and the renewal terms.
Compare on
What the cover includes and what it costs each year to keep.
Slow down when
You are told the house may collapse without immediate treatment.

A quote should spell out

  • The method and the product to be used.
  • The areas of the house to be treated.
  • The length of the cover and the yearly renewal price.
  • Whether structural damage is covered if treatment fails.

Warning signs the EPA lists

  • Pressure to sign immediately.
  • A quote priced per gallon of chemical.
  • A claim of a secret formula.
  • A claim of government endorsement.

The treatment types the EPA lists

  • Liquid soil treatmentA termiticide applied to the soil around and under the house. The EPA advises a licensed, trained professional for this work.
  • Bait systemsStations placed around the house that termites feed on and carry back to the colony.
  • Wood treatmentProducts applied to the wood itself, used for some kinds of infestation.
  • Treated materialsBuilding materials made with termiticide, used in new construction and repairs.

How to compare offers

  1. Get inspections and written quotes from more than one company.
  2. Ask each what method it proposes and why.
  3. Read what the cover excludes and what renewal costs.
  4. Check the license with the state agriculture department.

On termite cover the EPA's words are worth keeping in mind: "The guarantee is only as reliable as the company that offers it." It adds that cover often runs one to five years.

Related guides

Sources

  • US Environmental Protection Agency: termites
  • US Environmental Protection Agency: selecting a pest control service
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