Why Do Termite Spot Treatment Costs Vary So Much Between Companies?

Termite Spot Treatment Cost Comparison and Value Guide

If you suspect you have termites and start calling around for an estimate, you may find prices vary widely. This makes sense if the quotes you’re getting are for different types of treatment, but in some cases, you may find that the quotes you are hearing are very different from company to company, even for the same treatment. Why would that be? That is a fundamental question, and one that MightyMite Termite Services is happy to address.

Factors that Influence Termite Spot Treatment Cost

Of course, your treatment will depend primarily on your unique situation. Termite treatment must be customized, and the kind of treatment varies based on the type of termite, your location, the extent of the infestation, and other elements. The time of year is a factor, and if you schedule termite treatment in the off-season, you can get a significant discount. But what about when you get estimates from different companies for the same property and they are wildly diverse? Let’s look at some factors that might be coming into play.

Treatment Type and Technology

Different companies might use various technologies to deliver the same basic treatment. For example, there are now barrier treatments that use nanotechnology, rather than the traditional termiticides. Another recent development involves using genetically engineered microorganisms that specifically target termite biology. There are also termite monitoring and detection devices with sensors that can detect sounds as minuscule as a termite chewing, and some of these monitors can be managed through a mobile app. Obviously, a company that uses this type of next-level technology will charge more for its services.

Company Experience and Location

A large, national company may have higher overhead costs than a smaller local company, and those costs will be passed along to the customers. Similarly, while you might find cheaper treatment with a neighborhood handyperson than with a licensed, insured company, it’s essential to choose a licensed firm to ensure proper treatment, thorough documentation, and reduced risk to your home and family. Additionally, if the technician has to travel a significant distance or the property is difficult to access, this can increase the cost of the treatment.

How Much Does Termite Spot Treatment Cost? Additional Services that Can Impact the Price

Companies may say they offer free inspections, but then they pad the treatment cost to make up for it. However, the most critical factor in add-ons is the warranty. If a company offers the same treatment as another company, at a substantially lower cost, question the warranty they’re offering. Be very careful, because if they are offering a “limited warranty,” you will not be particularly protected. Limited warranties cover only certain areas and may require spot treatment. California law defines a spot-treated area as measuring one foot by one foot, so if you see termite activity 13 inches away from the treatment area, it won’t be covered by a limited warranty. If you call the company to come back and stand behind their work, they can charge more fees for areas outside the spot-treated areas.

On the other hand, companies that provide full structure warranties tend to charge more upfront. However, the guarantee they offer covers the entire structure being treated, including areas that weren’t included in the original inspection. Not many companies in California offer full-structure warranties for targeted termite treatment, but those that do will provide follow-up inspections to ensure termites haven’t returned to your home. No matter what price a termite inspector quotes you, be sure to ask if the service includes a full structure warranty.

Warranty Matters More Than Price

When comparing termite spot treatment quotes, always ask about the warranty. A “limited warranty” only covers the exact areas treated–defined by California law as a one-foot by one-foot spot. If termites show up just outside that area, you could face additional charges for retreatment. A “full structure warranty,” on the other hand, covers your entire home, including areas not originally treated or inspected. While full structure warranties may cost more upfront, they offer peace of mind and better long-term protection.

How to Get Transparent Pricing When Asking How Much to Get Rid of Termites

The best way to get transparent pricing is to ask several questions. Ask what the “free” inspection covers, and what kind of warranty is offered. Look for a termite control company with licensed technicians and clear treatment plans that explain what your price includes. Get your quote in writing, and make sure there are no hidden extras that could show up on your bill later. Check online reviews, look for a company with 5-star ratings, and ask people you know about the termite control companies they’ve used. You can learn quite a bit from your friends and neighbors about the business dealings and transparency of different businesses.

How Much Do Termite Treatments Cost? They Start with a Free Inspection from MightyMite Termite Services

At MightyMite Termite Services, we’re proud to be one of the few termite control companies that offer full structure warranties. We also provide free inspections of your entire home, thoroughly assessing the entire structure to determine the necessary treatments accurately. That way, we can be transparent with you before we begin treatment, providing a precise summary of the extent of the infestation, the treatment we recommend, and the cost. At MightyMite, we’ve earned a reputation as experts in termite control in the Bay Area, CA, and we are committed to using termite treatments that are naturally derived and environmentally low-impact to solve our clients’ termite problems. We diagnose and treat infestations with the most effective methods and unmatched warranties, eradicating infestations the first time, with an industry-best “no call-back rate.” That, combined with our experience, technology, and highly trained professional staff, makes us the leading extermination company in the Bay Area. We understand that your home is your most important investment, so we work hard to provide excellent service and transparent pricing, utilizing best practices to solve our customers’ termite problems. To schedule an inspection or learn more about our services, contact us through our website.