Does Your Pest Control Plan Cover Termites? The Critical Facts Every Homeowner Should Know

Protecting your home from pests is where the rubber meets the road. Not all invaders get the same level of attention. General pest control services can handle the usual suspects—ants, roaches and rodents—but termite control services are often treated as a separate case. That's because termites demand a level of expertise, equipment and ongoing maintenance that's just not part of standard pest management. If your current plan doesn't cover termites explicitly, your home could be at risk.

In this article, we'll break down the differences between standard pest control and termite coverage. We'll explain why termites require a different kind of care—and what you can do to keep your property termite-free. By the end, you'll know exactly what to look for in a pest control provider and how to get the best protection for your home.

The Difference Between General Pest Control and Termite Coverage

Most residential pest control services are designed to handle visible, active infestations of common household pests. These programs include scheduled inspections, perimeter sprays and targeted treatments for spiders, silverfish and occasional invaders. But termites are different.

Unlike ants or cockroaches, termites work silently, often going undetected for years while they eat away at your wooden structures from the inside out. Their hidden nature means by the time you see signs—sagging floors or crumbling wood—the damage is already done. That’s why many pest control companies exclude termites from their standard plans and offer them as an add-on or a separate treatment program.

You need to understand this. If you assume your general pest control contract includes termites you may be left with a big repair bill when an infestation is found. Always check the fine print with your provider.

Why Termites Demand Specialized Treatment

Termites are a whole different story when it comes to household pests. They're not just another pest-you worry about-they're a structural hazard. Their biology and behavior make them much more destructive than those other insects you're used to dealing with. That means you need a different strategy for prevention and elimination.

Termites live in massive colonies-often hundreds of thousands-strong. And one colony can eat through wood at an alarming rate, weakening the very foundation of your home. Unlike other pests that forage in the open, termites tunnel through wood. That means you might not see the damage until it's already quite extensive.

Termites also require a tailored approach. General insecticide sprays might keep ants and roaches at bay-but they won't penetrate deep enough to wipe out an entire termite colony. Effective pest control services in New York involves specialized techniques such as:

• Liquid Termiticides: These create a chemical barrier in the soil, preventing termites from entering a structure.
• Bait Stations: Strategically placed around a property, these attract and poison termites, gradually eliminating the colony.
• Wood Treatments: Applied directly to vulnerable areas, these deter termites from consuming structural wood.

Given these complexities, termite management is not a one-time fix but an ongoing process requiring professional expertise.

Does Your Current Pest Control Plan Include Termites?

If you're unsure whether your pest control service covers termites, take a close look at your contract. Many homeowners assume that "pest control" means just that—only to find out too late that termites weren't included.

Here’s what to look for:

1.      General Pest Control Only – Most standard pest control plans focus on the common insects and rodents. leaving termites unaddressed.

2.      Optional Termite Add-Ons – Some companies do offer termite protection—but that usually comes at an extra cost.

3.       Comprehensive Pest & Termite Bundles – You can find a few providers that bundle both pest control and termite protection together in one plan. Those premium services come with a higher price tag.

If your contract doesn't mention termites explicitly, it's time to get in touch with your provider. Clarify what's covered and what's not. Waiting until you see signs of an infestation could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.

Warning Signs of a Termite Infestation

Termites are masters of stealth. That's why early detection is so crucial. Knowing what to look for can make all the difference between a small, manageable infestation and one that spirals out of control before you even know it.

Some of the most common indicators of termites include:

Mud Tubes – Those pencil-thin tunnels termites build along foundations or walls to travel between their nest and food sources. You'll also hear (or rather, not hear) hollow-sounding wood when you tap on wooden beams or floors. That's a pretty clear sign of subterranean termites at work.

Hollow-Sounding Wood – Swarming termites shed their wings after finding a new nesting site. Piles of tiny wings near windowsills or doors are a red flag.

Cracked or Bubbling Paint – Termites produce moisture as they tunnel, which can cause paint to warp or bubble in unnatural ways.

Frass (Termite Droppings)—looks like tiny wood-colored pellets. You might find them accumulating near infested wood.

If you notice any of these signs, you need to take action right away. The longer termites go untreated, the more damage—and the bigger the repair bill—you'll face down the line.

Choosing the Right Pest Control Provider for Termite Protection

Not all pest control companies are equipped to handle termites effectively. When selecting a provider, consider the following:

• Licensing & Certification – Ensure the company is licensed for termite control in your state.
• Experience with Termites – Look for providers with a proven track record in termite management.
• Treatment Methods Offered – The best companies use a combination of liquid barriers, bait systems, and monitoring for comprehensive protection.
• Warranties & Guarantees – Reputable providers stand by their work with strong service warranties.

A trustworthy pest control company will conduct a thorough inspection, explain their recommended treatment plan, and provide clear pricing without hidden fees.

The Cost of Ignoring Termite Protection

Many homeowners delay termite prevention to save money, only to face staggering repair bills later. The National Pest Management Association estimates that termites cause over $5 billion in property damage annually in the U.S. alone. Unlike other pests, termite damage is often not covered by homeowners’ insurance, leaving you solely responsible for the costs.

Investing in professional termite control now can save you from financial strain and structural headaches down the road.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late—Secure Your Home Today

Termites are a relentless threat, but with the right precautions, you can keep your home safe. If your current pest control plan doesn’t include termites, now is the time to take action.

Call Us Now for a Free Termite Inspection!

???? 718-284-7378

Our expert team specializes in termite detection, prevention, and elimination, offering customized solutions to protect your home. Don’t let termites silently destroy your property—contact us today for peace of mind and professional service!