Termite Fumigation vs Local Treatment

For drywood termites, the main choice is between treating the whole structure at once (usually tent fumigation) and treating only the colonies that can be found and reached (local or spot treatment). Whole-structure treatment reaches hidden colonies; local treatment is less disruptive but only treats what is found. For subterranean termites, the choice is usually between soil-applied liquid treatment and bait systems. Which one fits depends on how widespread the termites are, how much of the wood can be reached, and what a home sale or lender requires.

What is tent fumigation, and how does it work?

The home is covered with tarps, and a fumigant gas (commonly sulfuryl fluoride) is released inside to reach all of the wood in the structure, including inside walls. The gas is held for a set time, then the tarps come off and the home is aired out. A warning agent is typically added so the gas is noticeable, and the company uses gas-detection equipment to confirm levels are low enough before people return. Plan on being out of the house for a few days; the company will give you exact timing.

How do I prepare for fumigation?

People, pets, and plants out. That includes fish tanks and indoor plants.
Food, medicine, and tobacco either removed or sealed in special fumigation bags the company provides. Follow their written list exactly.
Gas service. Gas is typically shut off for fumigation and turned back on afterward; the pest company usually coordinates this with the gas utility. Ask who arranges it.
Landscaping. Plants against the house may need trimming, and soil next to the foundation is often watered to help seal the tarps.
Security. Ask how the home is secured while tented, and take valuables with you.

What does local or spot treatment involve?

For drywood colonies that can be found, a technician drills small holes into the infested wood and injects a product, or treats exposed wood surfaces. Options include liquid termiticides, foams, borate products, and some botanical oils. Some companies also offer localized heat or other non-chemical methods for specific areas. Local treatment works best when the infestation is limited and the wood is reachable. Its weak point is that colonies hidden inside walls or in parts of the attic that can't be reached may be missed.

What about whole-structure heat?

Some companies heat the entire home, or large sections of it, to a temperature that kills drywood termites in the wood. It avoids fumigant gas and is usually a shorter disruption, but heat has to reach every infested board, and items sensitive to heat must be removed. Ask how temperatures are measured inside the wood and what happens if a spot does not reach target temperature.

How are subterranean termites treated?

Liquid soil treatment: termiticide is applied to the soil around the foundation, and sometimes through drilled holes in slabs, to create a treated zone termites contact as they travel.
Bait systems: stations placed in the soil around the house hold bait that termites carry back to the colony. They need ongoing monitoring under a service agreement.
Moisture and wood repairs: breaking wood-to-soil contact, fixing leaks, and improving drainage and crawl space ventilation help any treatment last.

How do I compare bids?

Ask each company to state the termite type, where it was found, and why they recommend whole-structure or local treatment.
Get the exact product or method, the areas treated, and the warranty length and terms in writing.
Ask what happens if termites show up somewhere that was not treated.
Ask whether damaged wood replacement is included or priced separately.
Confirm each company's license at pestboard.ca.gov.

What affects the cost?

We don't publish prices because they vary widely with home size, roof type, access, the treatment method, and how much repair work is needed. Tile roofs, complex rooflines, and attached structures can change the price and the plan. Get written estimates and compare the scope, not only the total.

Safety notes

Never enter a tented home or remove warning signs. If you or a pet feel unwell after returning, contact a doctor or vet and the pest company. If you have questions about a pesticide application, the Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner's office handles local pesticide use enforcement, and the Structural Pest Control Board handles complaints about structural pest control companies.

Frequently asked questions

How long do we have to stay out during fumigation?

Plan on a few days. The exact time depends on the fumigant, the size of the home, and aeration. The company will give you a schedule and must confirm gas levels before you return.

Is local treatment as good as tenting?

It can work well for limited, reachable drywood infestations. It may miss colonies hidden in walls or inaccessible areas. Ask the inspector to explain why they recommend one or the other for your home.

Do I need to tent for subterranean termites?

Generally no. Subterranean termites live in the soil, so treatment usually targets the soil around the home with liquid termiticide or bait stations.

Will my gas be turned off for fumigation?

Usually yes. Gas is typically shut off before fumigation and restored afterward. Ask the pest company how they coordinate it with the gas utility.

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