Termites cause many millions of dollars of damage annually. There are two major types of termites that are found in the US: subterranean termites, which live in the soil; and drywood termites, which attack sound, dry wood and are most abundant in coastal areas.

Retaining the services of a competent termite control company is important because termite control requires specialized equipment and knowledge available only from professionals. If you suspect you have a termite infestation, the following steps will help you select a termite control service:

Termites work slowly, so your house will not collapse or be ruined overnight. Do not become unduly alarmed if you learn that termites are, or may be, attacking your home.

Do not permit anyone to rush you into buying termite control services. Take the time you need to make an informed decision. Delaying a few weeks makes no difference. There is always time to buy this service wisely and at your convenience.

Time is obviously more pressing if you are trying to sell your home and a real estate transaction is pending. If the infestation was discovered with enough time before closing on the transaction, a treatment can still be chosen and performed to the satisfaction of the buyer, seller and mortgage company. Closing can also be postponed temporarily until the treatment is completed, although this is usually not preferred by the parties concerned.

Arrange for a thorough termite inspection, knowing that the costs of inspections, estimates and terms can vary significantly among companies. Request inspections from three or more companies. Ask for recommendations from friends and neighbors; this is one of the best ways to get an honest opinion about a termite control service.

A diagram of the structure should be included, which is extremely helpful in indicating the location of structural features such as porches, utility accesses and areas of wood-to-soil contact, as well as areas with drainage or moisture problems in or near the structure.

Determine whether the estimate is a firm price, and be cautious if it is not. If you decide to obtain more than one opinion, quote or inspection, let each firm involved know that other firms were contacted. As the consumer, you are free to shop, but treat the companies with the same courtesy and respect you hope they will return as pest control professionals.

Consumers shopping for termite control services have more choices than ever before. This is good, but it can also be confusing. Options include baits and soil barriers for subterranean termites, and fumigants and heat for drywood termites.