How much can getting rid of termites from your home cost?

(Unsplash/Luke van Zyl)

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About 45 different kinds of termites plague the US right now. Each one falls into one of the three categories – drywood, dampwood and subterranean. Identifying the species that has invaded your house is necessary to employ an effective abatement strategy. Each species is unique and has its niche behavior. Their habits, habitat and food source help in identifying them and eliminating them successfully.

Every termite treatment has a budget. Many families and homeowners refrain from seeking professional treatment due to the fear of incurring costs. It is true that the average inspection and termite treatment costcan range between $100 and $1400. However, the price can decrease substantially depending on the size of the home, the intensity of infestation and propensity of return. Some companies offer no-return guarantees for limited periods, if you get an offer like that within a reasonable cost, you should go for it. Here are a few things you should keep in mind while choosing termite treatment companies –

  1. Pick a treatment plan which entails inspection services at least once a year. The cost can be between $100 and $300 depending on the inspection needs. If they have to run preventive treatments each time, then the costs might be on the higher end of the spectrum.
  2. After the inspection, you can take matters into your own hands. Invest in reliable termite baits and use them as per instructions. Since you do not have the professional training in baiting or the know-how of termite colonies, it might take you multiple tries to get rid of the pests entirely.
  3. Chemical treatments cost about $4 to $20 per foot. Always remember that the cost of the procedures depends on the linear foot and not by the usual square foot. So, run an estimate with the company before you hire them for termite termination.
  4. Drywood termite termination is a financial challenge since they only respond to fumigation. It can take you over $1000 depending on the size of your property and the extent of the infestation.
  5. Companies usually install monitoring stations at homes. These are services you cannot get when DIY-ing the termite removal. These additional services are generally a part of the annual package you will be paying to the company.
  6. Always remember that national companies usually cost a little more than the local ones, but the local ones are not just as efficient as their national counterparts.

Moreover, do not discount the cost of chemicals, equipment, insurance, labor, tax and anything else the process demands. Most national companies do not include these costs in their invoice. The initial quote they provide is just their service charge. So, ask them about the additional expenses you might have to bear.

The final cost of the treatment can change depending on the geographic location of your house, the foundation plan, the treatment option and the guarantee plan you pick. Always choose a reputable local company for addressing your termite problem, since they will understand the climatic factors and soil conditions much better than outside companies. It will help them give them the nearest to an accurate quote for their complete services.