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Termite FAQs
Answers to the most common questions about termite inspections, treatment options, costs, and what to expect — from our licensed Southern California termite specialists.
What does a free termite inspection include?
Our free termite inspection is a comprehensive whole-structure assessment performed by a California-licensed structural pest control inspector. We inspect accessible attic spaces, subarea crawlspaces, garages, exterior eaves, window and door frames, and all wood-to-soil contact points. At the end, you receive a written report detailing any active infestations, evidence of past activity, and conditions conducive to termites — with no obligation to book treatment.
How long does tent fumigation take?
Tent fumigation (structural fumigation) typically takes 2–3 days from setup to clearance. Day 1: inspectors seal and tent the structure and introduce Vikane gas. Day 2: the gas does its work. Day 3: the tent is removed, the structure is aerated, and a certified inspector performs a clearance test before you re-enter. You'll need to be out of the home — including pets and plants — for the full duration.
Is orange oil treatment as effective as fumigation?
Orange oil (d-limonene) is highly effective for localized drywood termite infestations in accessible wood. It works by direct contact — our technicians drill small injection holes and introduce the oil directly into galleries. However, orange oil cannot penetrate walls or treat areas that can't be physically accessed, so it's not appropriate for widespread or inaccessible infestations. Our inspectors will tell you honestly whether orange oil is the right option for your specific situation.
How much does termite treatment cost in Orange County?
Termite treatment costs vary significantly depending on the treatment method, structure size, and extent of infestation. Spot treatments may start around $300–$600 for a localized area. Tent fumigation for a typical single-family home in Orange County ranges from $1,200–$2,800. Orange oil, heat treatment, and Termidor soil barrier treatments fall in varying ranges depending on the scope. We provide free inspections and transparent, itemized estimates — no surprise charges.
How do I know if I have drywood termites vs. subterranean termites?
Drywood termites live entirely within the wood they consume. Key signs include small hexagonal frass (pellet-like droppings) below infested wood, tiny kickout holes in wood surfaces, discarded wings near windows, and a hollow sound when you tap infested wood. Subterranean termites live underground and travel through mud tubes — pencil-width tunnels of mud running along foundations, walls, or pipes. They cause more structural damage faster and are found especially in areas with moisture or soil-to-wood contact. Our inspectors can identify both species during a free inspection.
Do I need to leave my home during treatment?
It depends on the treatment method. Tent fumigation requires all occupants — people, pets, and even plants — to vacate for approximately 3 days. Heat treatment requires vacating for the duration of the treatment (usually 6–8 hours) but you can return the same day. Orange oil, spot treatment, borate, and Termidor liquid barrier treatments generally do not require you to leave your home, making them popular no-tent options.
How long does the warranty last?
Warranty terms vary by treatment type. Tent fumigation typically carries a one-year warranty. Orange oil and spot treatments include a one-year warranty with optional annual re-inspection plans. Termidor liquid barrier treatments often include multi-year warranties given the long residual effect of the product. Borate wood treatments on new construction can carry lifetime coverage. All warranties are provided in writing before treatment begins.
What are signs of termites in walls?
Common signs of termites in walls include: hollow or papery sound when you knock on drywall, small piles of frass (termite droppings that look like tiny pellets or sawdust) near baseboards, mud tubes running up interior walls, blistered or bubbling paint (from moisture termites introduce), and tight-fitting doors or windows that suddenly stick due to wood distortion. If you notice any of these, schedule a free inspection — early detection significantly reduces treatment cost.
How soon can you come out for an inspection?
In most cases we can schedule a free inspection within 1–3 business days. For urgent situations — such as active swarmers or a real estate transaction with a tight close date — we offer priority scheduling. Call (714) 240-2800 or submit a request online and we'll confirm your appointment within one business day.
Is heat treatment safe for pets and children?
Heat treatment is one of the most pet- and child-friendly termite treatment options available because it uses no chemicals whatsoever. We raise the structure's temperature to 120–140°F, which kills termites at all life stages. You and your pets simply need to vacate during the treatment (typically 6–8 hours) and the home is safe to re-enter as soon as it cools to normal temperature. Heat treatment is especially popular for households concerned about chemical exposure.
What is Termidor and how does it work?
Termidor (fipronil) is a liquid termiticide applied as a continuous soil barrier around your home's foundation. Subterranean termites travel through the treated zone and pick up the product without detecting it. Because of Termidor's "Transfer Effect," affected termites carry it back to the colony, spreading it through contact before they die — eliminating the entire colony rather than just the termites you can see. Termidor is widely regarded as the most effective subterranean termite treatment available and maintains its effectiveness for years in the soil.
Do you service commercial properties?
Yes. We provide comprehensive commercial termite control for property managers, HOAs, hospitality, healthcare, retail, office parks, and multi-unit residential buildings across Southern California. We offer off-hours scheduling to minimize disruption, WDO compliance reports, and custom maintenance programs. Contact us for a commercial quote.
How often should I get a termite inspection?
We recommend annual termite inspections for all Southern California homeowners. The warm, dry climate is ideal for drywood termites year-round, and subterranean termite activity is persistent throughout the region. Annual inspections allow us to catch new infestations early — before they become costly structural problems. Many homeowners also schedule inspections when buying or selling a home, after noticing swarmers, or following a neighboring property's treatment.
Can termites come back after treatment?
Yes, re-infestation is possible — especially with drywood termites, which can enter through any exposed wood surface. That's why we recommend annual re-inspections and offer renewable warranty plans. Subterranean termite re-infestation risk is significantly reduced with Termidor soil barrier treatments, which remain effective for years. Our technicians will advise on the best long-term prevention strategy for your property type and location.
What is the electro-gun treatment?
The electro-gun is a non-chemical treatment method that kills termites by passing a high-voltage, low-current electrical charge through infested wood. A technician probes accessible wood surfaces, and the current electrocutes termites on contact within the wood. It's effective for localized drywood termite infestations in accessible areas and is completely chemical-free. It's a good option for spot treatment in sensitive environments, though it requires direct access to infested wood.
What happens if I find termites when selling my home?
If a termite inspection report (WDO report) reveals active infestation or damage, the seller typically has several options: treat before close of escrow, negotiate a credit with the buyer, or reduce the sale price. Most lenders require Section 1 clearance (active infestation treated) before funding. We provide fast turnaround on both WDO inspection reports and treatment — helping you close on time. Contact us as soon as possible once an issue is identified to avoid escrow delays.
Are your treatments pet and child safe?
Safety depends on the treatment method. Heat treatment and electro-gun are completely chemical-free and safe once the structure returns to normal temperature. Orange oil and borate treatments have low toxicity profiles. Tent fumigation with Vikane requires complete evacuation for approximately 3 days, after which the structure is tested and certified safe before re-entry. Termidor liquid barrier is applied to the soil exterior and poses minimal risk to occupants once dry. We'll walk you through the safety requirements for whichever treatment is recommended.
Do you service all of Southern California?
We serve 100+ cities across four Southern California counties: Orange County (Anaheim, Irvine, Newport Beach, and 30+ more), Los Angeles County (Long Beach, Pasadena, Torrance, and 50+ more), the Inland Empire (San Bernardino, Ontario, Fontana, and surrounding cities), and Riverside County (Riverside, Corona, Temecula, Murrieta, and more). See our full service area directory or contact us to confirm coverage in your city.
What is borate wood treatment?
Borate treatment (commonly applied as BoraCare or Tim-bor) penetrates wood and creates a long-lasting barrier that is toxic to termites and wood-boring beetles but has very low toxicity for humans and pets. It's applied directly to bare wood framing — most commonly during new construction or major renovations when wood is exposed. Borate is also effective as a remedial treatment for active powder post beetle infestations. Once cured, the protection lasts for the life of the wood if it remains dry.
How do I prepare for tent fumigation?
Preparing for tent fumigation involves several steps: (1) Remove or double-bag all food, medicine, and consumables in special Nylofume bags we provide. (2) Arrange accommodations for all people and pets for approximately 3 days. (3) Remove all plants from inside the home. (4) Unlock all interior doors, cabinets, and attic access points. (5) Turn off pilot lights on gas appliances. (6) Provide a key or arrange access for our technicians. We provide a detailed pre-fumigation checklist when you schedule — nothing should be left to guesswork.
Still Have Questions?
Our licensed inspectors are happy to answer any question — no sales pressure, no obligation.