Termite fumigation for a 1,250 sq. ft. home ranges between $2,400 and $4,125. While a 2,500 sq. ft. home costs $4,500 to $6,000 or more. Several exterminators may charge your fumigation costs based on the home's cubic feet (total volume) or per square footage (total area).
It would be best to work with a reliable exterminator since fumigation seals your home before releasing toxic gas (that's left to permeate for two to five days). They must help you follow safety precautions, including putting up warning signs to protect your family and even your neighbors.
Termite Fumigation Average Costs
Termite fumigation starts from $14 to $25 per linear foot. This translates to spending between $2,400 and $4,125 for the average home.
Termite fumigation is aggressive, as lethal gas is pumped into the tent-enclosed home. This process takes several hours to complete. But, all your home's occupants (including pets and plants) will need to leave home for three to five days.
If you have any extensions at home, such as a garage or patio, your fumigation specialist will include these areas as well. (Related: Termite Treatment: A Cost & Consumer Guide)
How does Termite Fumigation Work?
The termite fumigation process involves tenting your home and using toxic chemicals (such as Methyl Bromide). This method is commonly recommended to treat severe Drywood termite infestations. (Related: Termite Tenting: How Much Does It Cost?)
Some cost factors that may influence the total price are as follows:
Usually, fumigation will cover or tent your home with tarps. This fumigant is expected to penetrate every nook and cranny deeply, including cracks and tunnels to exterminate the pests.
Pre-fumigation Reminders
Before the termite fumigation process begins, you must remove every food, medicine, plant, and pet inside your home. Gas utilities also need to be turned off for safety purposes. Since the process takes up to five days, you will need to arrange living accommodations for your family in the meantime.
Renting a hotel room or going away on a trip is something you'll need to factor into your budget.
During the Fumigation: Additional Costs
If you don't have any nearby relatives who can provide alternative housing for a few days, you will have no choice but to pay to stay at a hotel. Note that the costs of renting per room can add up rather quickly.
Those with pets may pay higher for every rented room, as hotels may require pet deposits. This will also narrow down your options as not every hotel allows pets inside the rooms. Another expense to consider while you wait for the fumigation process to be completed is the daily meals. Since you're less likely allowed to cook at a hotel, you may need to order restaurant meals for days.
If possible, choose a hotel room with a fridge to accommodate leftovers or baby formula (if you have infants). When it's finally time to return home, you may also consider hiring local cleaning services to help you get your home back in shape. This is recommended for those with busy, tight schedules.
After the Fumigation: Repairs and Prevention
After the fumigation, you can then return home safely. But, the expenses don't stop there. For extensive termite damage (structural), you must pay for repairs. Total costs will vary depending on the termite type, the extent of the damage, and project scope.
Repairing the damage brought by termite infestation may cost you thousands, so it's best to prepare your budget accordingly. Suppose you have decks or patios that termites have damaged. In that case, you may want to ask your specialist if it will be cheaper to have them rebuilt (instead of fixed).
Telling Signs of Termite Infestation
So, how do you determine if your home is swamped with termites? Here are some telling signs to keep in mind:
Homeowners with damaged flooring due to termite infestation can hire local flooring contractors to correct the damaged beams or joists.
Although termites do not pose any direct threat to humans, they may still severely damage the home. It would be beneficial to have your home inspected at least once a year for any signs of termite activity.
Annual Termite Inspections
For your peace of mind, it's best to opt for annual inspections to ensure your home is free from termites.
A professional termite inspection costs between $250 and $400, depending on the total size of your home. But if you get an inspection before signing up for termite fumigation, the company usually does it free of charge. Without regular inspections, you will likely be unaware of another infestation.
Homeowners with a contract can depend on their inspector to treat any suspected termite-infested area. But if it expires, the company will no longer be obligated to keep your home in check.
Termite Infestation Preventive Measures
Fortunately, there are preventative measures you can follow to avoid dealing with full-blown termite infestations. Here are some of them:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does termite fumigation take?
Remember to give it at least 3 to 5 days before you can safely occupy your home again after fumigation.
How long does the fumigation treatment last?
A termite fumigation treatment will typically last 1 to 2 years. Before switching to a management plan, homeowners should double-check that the initial application succeeded. (Related: How Long Does Termite Treatment Last?)
Does insurance cover treatment?
Most homeowners' insurance coverage does not cover termite control. That type of coverage is often reserved for unexpected and severe damage rather than issues arising from routine house upkeep.
Can you treat termites yourself?
Termite extermination requires a professional who possesses both knowledge and experience. Every method requires an understanding of these factors:
Attempting to do it yourself without any experience may damage your home or endanger your family's health.
I just bought a new construction SFH in Fort Myers. It’s the first house I own that’s built on slab with no crawl space. Does the slab cause more or less termite? Also, how the SW Florida weather pattern impact the termite risk?
Termite problems on new construction are VERY unlikely. I wouldn’t worry about it at all.