Preventative, remedial tactics for termite control

Dr. Brittany Campbell, BCE

Termites are highly destructive insects that can cause significant damage to the structural integrity of a building. Termite control involves both preventative and remedial tactics, depending on whether a structure currently has a termite issue, or the goal is to prevent termite infestations. A thorough inspection is key to identifying areas of concern, such as water leaks or wood-to-soil contact and protecting a home from termites.

When inspecting for termites, look for signs of hollow wood, cracked paint, tubes, wings and, of course, live termites. There is no accurate, scientific method for determining how old termite damage is; you would need a reference point such as a definitive time when there was previously no damage. Don’t attempt to age damage or tell customers how long termites have been in the structure unless there is earlier documentation (such as annual inspection records) for reference.

Remember, even if termites are not found, that is not a guarantee that termites may not be hidden. If there are any obstructions or areas you can’t access to make a thorough inspection, be sure to add those details to your inspection report.