Termites:  ​Frequently Asked Questions

​We hope that the following frequently asked questions will help you understand more about why termite inspections are necessary and what to expect after an inspection is completed.

Q. Why would I need a Termite inspection?

A. Because structural damage can be expensive to repair, most homes should be inspected yearly for new termite infestations.  Termites swarm many times a year and new infestations are a common occurrence. Finding them quickly and eliminating infestation can (keep?) you from expensive structural repairs in the future.

​Q. How long does a termite inspection take? What’s involved?

​A. Our highly trained and experienced inspectors can usually complete a termite inspection within an hour. Your home or other structure will be thoroughly inspected. Because termites are our specialty, we know exactly what to look for that will indicate the presence of termites and other wood destroying insects. Certain types of visible damage may indicate the presence of termites.

Q. What does an inspector look for during a termite inspection?

A. Richland Termite inspectors are trained to look for active infection or infestation as well as resulting damage caused by termites. Some things an inspector will look for are: termites, fungus damage, water damage, earth to wood contacts and plumbing leaks. Other indications of termite infestation include, mud tunnels, hollowed out wood, termite swarming.  Our inspectors are highly trained to look in the most obvious places and know exactly what to look for.

​Q. Is my newly constructed home vulnerable to Termite infestation?

A. This is a possibility. Any structure containing wood is a potential target of attack for Termites. Pre-treatment of a new structure is highly recommended to protect your new home.

Q. How do subterranean termites get into my home or dwelling?

A. Termites only require 1/64″ wide opening in concrete, wood, brick or other building material and can gain access from beside, beneath or above a dwelling. They may enter directly from the soil, or may build mud tubes leading from a nearby termite colony in the soil to the wood of your house. Termites travel between the wood found in dwellings and their colony every day.

Q. What if no evidence of termites is found?

​A. Richland Termite and Pest Control will provide you with a written report stating that no visible evidence of infestation has been found in the area that was inspected. It is important to periodically perform a re inspection, particularly if other nearby structures indicate the presence of termites.

Q. If the inspection shows termites are present, what should be done?

​A. Our termite inspection report should be available within 24 hours after inspection. If the inspection reveals the presence of termites or other wood destroying insects, it is necessary to quickly treat the property to prevent any further damage. Richland Termite and Pest Control will provide you with all the necessary information as well as a quote for the cost to treat an active termite infestation as well as the cost for damage repairs.

​Q. Will my family have to vacate the house during treatment?

​A. Not necessarily. It depends upon whether the infestation is located inside your dwelling. Treatment for subterranean termites can be accomplished without vacating your home. After the termite inspection, Richland Termite and Pest Control inspectors will explain to you exactly what procedures are necessary to correct the infestation and any resulting termite damage.

​​Q. What if the inspection reveals extensive Termite damage to my property?

​A. If our inspection discovers damage that could threaten the soundness or appearance of the dwelling or building, we will inform you of any repairs that may be needed. Our qualified inspectors are familiar with the specialized repairs needed to correct damage by Termites and we will inform you of exactly what needs to be done and the process for completing the repairs.