Questions to ask before termite treatment starts

Termite treatment is one of those decisions where asking the wrong questions will cost you far more than the treatment itself. The real risk isn't the upfront price—it's hiring someone who either oversells unnecessary work or leaves the job half-done. The questions you ask before work starts determine whether you get targeted, honest advice or a sales pitch dressed up as pest control.

What exactly have you found, and where?

A solid answer should be specific: the technician names the termite type (if they've identified it), describes the location and extent of activity, and walks you through what they actually observed—mud tubes, timber damage, swarming, frass. Vague responses like "you've definitely got termites, we'll sort it" or evasion around whether they've even inspected the property are red flags.

Why it matters: different termite species behave differently, and treatment approach depends entirely on where activity is happening. If they haven't properly assessed the problem, they can't give you an honest quote or recommend the right solution. A trustworthy specialist will show you the evidence and explain what they saw, not just take your word that there's a problem.

What's your treatment plan, and why that one?

Ask them to explain the method step-by-step: will they use soil barriers, spot treatments, baiting stations, or a combination? What product, at what concentration, and over what area? How long will it take, and when will you see results? A good answer includes the reasoning—"based on the location and the species, a soil treatment along the foundation wall will intercept foraging termites" beats "we'll treat the whole house to be safe."

Avoid anyone who treats every job the same way, or who pressures you toward the most expensive option without clear justification. Questions to push back: If they recommend full soil treatment, ask why spot treatment won't work. If they suggest leaving the job to chance, that's a clear sign to look elsewhere.

What guarantees and follow-up does this include?

A credible technician will explain what they warrant and for how long. They should also tell you what you need to do to keep the guarantee valid—for example, maintaining clear access to treated areas, or avoiding disruption of barriers. Ask whether follow-up inspections are included, how often they happen, and whether retreatment is free if termites return during the guarantee period.

Beware of vague promises like "guaranteed to work." Guarantees are only as good as the fine print and the business behind them. Ask for the warranty in writing, and read the conditions. A realistic guarantee acknowledges that new infestations can occur from untreated areas, and covers the specific area you've agreed to treat.

What should I do to prepare, and what should I avoid afterward?

They should give you clear prep instructions: move furniture, clear access routes, shut doors to certain rooms, or ventilate treated areas. They should also tell you what not to do after treatment—when it's safe to re-enter, whether children and pets need to stay out, whether you should seal or disturb treated soil, and how long you should wait before cleaning surfaces.

If they're vague about post-treatment care, ask directly:

• How long before the area is safe for pets and children?
• Can I touch or wash treated surfaces immediately?
• Should I avoid repainting or sealing treated wood?
• When's the first follow-up inspection, and who pays for it?

A technician who answers clearly, hands you written instructions, and doesn't rush through this part is one who's thinking about your safety and the longevity of the treatment.

The final check

Before you sign anything, verify they can show you relevant qualifications and that they hold the necessary professional registration. Ask for references from recent jobs in your area, and check whether they're listed as verified on Strove—that verification process catches operators who cut corners.

Trusted termite specialists welcome these questions and answer them thoroughly, because they know a fully informed client is a satisfied one.