Should I Worry If My Neighbor Has Termites?

Termites are awful pests. Though they’re small, homeowners still need to take measures to protect their property from termite infestations in central Illinois. The scary thing is that just about every home is a potential target for termites, but not everyone is prepared for such a problem. While taking preventative steps over time is good, some situations call for quicker action in order to eliminate the threat.

For example, perhaps you’ve gotten word that a neighbor on your street has discovered termites in their house. If the affected property is all the way down at the other end of the neighborhood, you might not be too concerned. But should you worry if your next-door neighbors have termites? The short answer is yes—here’s what you need to know about termites and the reason they are one of the worst kinds of pests to have attracted your home.

How to Know if You Have a Termite Problem

Don't presume your residence is devoid of termites simply because you haven't observed them. To ascertain the presence of these pests, a comprehensive termite inspection in Central Illinois is essential. Key indicators we investigate include:

1. Mud tubes constructed for above-ground travel
2. Wood that sounds hollow or exhibits damage
3. Pinholes or soft areas in drywall or wallpaper
4. Remnants of termite wings from swarming activities
5. Other distinctive signs pointing to a termite presence

Is Your Property At Risk From Termites?

If your neighbor discovers termites on their property, then your home is at immediate risk for termite infestation. The closer the termite problem is to your home, the greater the risk. All termite colonies have winged termite pals called swarmers, which go around finding new places to start new termite colonies. A swarm that is nearby won’t have to travel far to find your house—in fact, they may start in on the wood on your property immediately upon discovery. Since termites deemed your neighbor’s house a favorable target, this means the conditions at your place are likely similar. Termites won’t hesitate to wreak havoc.

What Do You Do if You Have Termites?

Hopefully, you have good neighbors, and they’ve informed you about their termite issue. If you find out a neighbor’s house is infested, schedule a professional termite inspection immediately. The pest control expert will let you know what’s up, give you important information about the condition of your home, and tell you about your protection or treatment options. In the event you have old termite damage or the inspector finds evidence of existing termites, they will go over all of that with you, too.

Naturally, discovering there’s an active termite infestation near your central Illinois property can be nerve-racking. The ideal scenario is that you will not have an active infestation and can focus on taking the steps necessary to prevent the termites from your neighbor’s house from invading your home.

For termite inspections or help treating a termite infestation, reach out to the team at Crist Termite and Pest Solutions, Inc. today.