Protect your home with annual pest control

Posted at 5:56 AM, Mar. 23, 2007

Cherry blossoms are blooming, tulips  are peeking out, and termites and other pests are making their presence known.  According to the National Pest management Association, termite season usually starts in late February to early March and lasts through June.

The association points out that swarming occurs with warmer temperatures because this is the time that termites leave their colonies to find new nesting sites. Furthermore, in most cases swarming may be the only indication that there is an infestation. However, lacking a swarm doesn’t mean your home is free of termites.  

Regular inspections and carefully considered treatment is necessary to stay on top of infestations and to protect most people’s largest investments—their homes.  You should check with your insurance company concerning coverage for damage from wood-boring insect damage.  In almost all cases of which I'm aware, it is not covered by homeowners’ insurance policies.

Infestations can go undetected by homeowners who don’t inspect their property annually. Termites eat wood, flooring, sheetrock, wallpaper, plastics, paper products and fabric made of plant fibers, which can compromise the structural soundness of a home.  Homeowners are encouraged to protect their properties with annual inspections from a qualified pest professional.  In the Richmond Metropolitan Area, there are a number of very good pest control companies who can offer year round service.   If you would like a referral to one or more of these companies, feel free to email me