Termite Treatment Quote: Costs, Factors, and How to Compare

A termite treatment quote is a written estimate that spells out how a pro will eliminate and prevent termites at your property—and what it will cost. A solid quote should summarize inspection findings (where activity was found and which species), the treatment method(s) recommended, how pricing is calculated (by linear foot or square foot), chemicals or systems to be used, any prep you must do, the timeline, and what the warranty covers. Done right, it helps you compare providers apples-to-apples and budget for any related repairs.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what a termite quote should include, 2025 pricing benchmarks you can use to sanity‑check bids, and typical costs for liquid barriers, bait systems, and tenting. We’ll explain how infestation type and severity change the price, why home size and foundation matter, and what to know about inspections and WDI/WDO reports. You’ll also get a side‑by‑side comparison checklist, smart questions to ask, red flags to avoid, DIY vs. pro considerations, how to measure your linear footage, and when to choose tenting vs. spot or perimeter treatments—plus prep, aftercare, repair budgeting, and ways to save without cutting corners. Let’s get you a clear, confident number.

What a termite treatment quote includes

A trustworthy termite treatment quote should be specific, measurable, and easy to audit later. You’re looking for clear findings, defined methods, and pricing math you can verify—not vague promises. Here’s what to expect in a professional termite treatment quote:

  • Inspection findings: species identified, activity locations, conducive moisture issues, and a simple diagram.
  • Scope and methods: liquid barrier, bait system, fumigation/heat, or a combo—plus product names and labels available on request.
  • Quantities and pricing math: linear footage of foundation, number of bait stations, or square footage for tenting; unit prices and totals; where trenching/drilling occurs.
  • Prep and access: what you must do (e.g., clear perimeter, bagging for fumigation) and required crawl/attic access.
  • Timeline and disruption: start date, duration, re‑entry times, and monitoring visit cadence.
  • Warranty/bond terms: length, renewal options, retreatment vs. damage coverage, limits, and transferability.
  • Exclusions and assumptions: inaccessible areas, moisture/repair work not included.
  • Credentials and compliance: license/insurance, safety practices, and WDI/WDO report availability.
  • Payment terms: deposit, schedule, fees, and cancellation policy.

Average termite treatment costs and pricing benchmarks (2025)

Use these benchmarks to sanity‑check any termite treatment quote in 2025. Prices swing based on method, scope, and access, but the unit rates below are consistent across major national providers and industry guides. Small spot jobs can be a few hundred dollars; comprehensive perimeter or whole‑structure treatments scale with linear feet or square footage and often include an annual renewal.

Line item Typical 2025 price
Initial inspection $75–$200 or free with treatment
Spot treatment (localized area) $200–$600
Liquid barrier (perimeter) $3–$16 per linear foot (≈$1,000–$3,200 for ~200 lf)
Bait system (initial) $1,500–$3,000 (or $8–$12 per linear foot)
Bait monitoring (annual) $300–$500
Fumigation/tenting (drywood) $1–$4 per sq ft or $1,200–$2,500+

Reported averages vary by scope: quick or limited treatments often land around $620 nationally, while full subterranean programs commonly average near $1,500. Always match the quote’s scope to the benchmarked unit pricing above.

Treatment methods and typical costs per foot or square foot

Most termite treatment quotes use unit pricing so you can verify the math. Perimeter treatments are priced per linear foot of foundation; whole‑structure jobs are often priced per square foot. Your quote should show both the unit rate and the measured footage so you can calculate the total yourself.

  • Liquid barrier (subterranean): $3–$16 per linear foot. Includes trenching and often drilling through slabs; an average ~200 lf home runs about $1,000–$3,200.
  • Bait systems (e.g., Sentricon): $8–$12 per linear foot or $1,500–$3,000 for the initial setup, with $300–$500 annually for monitoring.
  • Whole‑structure tenting (drywood): Commonly quoted at $1–$4 per sq ft or as a flat $1,200–$2,500+; some providers use $5–$20 per linear foot for tented jobs.
  • Heat tenting: Around $10 per linear foot.
  • Localized spot treatments: $200–$600 for small, defined areas.

quick check: total = unit rate × measured linear (or square) footage

Ask whether unit prices include drilling/patching, treatment around attached slabs/porches, and required follow‑up visits.

Infestation type and severity: how they change the quote

The species and maturity of the colony directly shape your termite treatment quote. Subterranean termites usually mean soil or perimeter treatments that scale by linear foot, while widespread drywood activity often pushes you toward whole‑structure tenting priced by square foot. As colonies grow or spread into inaccessible areas, expect more drilling, more footage to treat, and added monitoring visits.

  • By severity: small $250–$1,200; medium $400–$1,500; large $1,200–$3,000 (typical ranges for eradication and follow‑ups).
  • Subterranean focus: liquid barriers/baits priced at $3–$16 per linear foot; localized spots can be $200–$600, full perimeters often $1,000–$3,200 for ~200 lf.
  • Drywood focus: whole‑structure fumigation/heat commonly $1–$4 per sq ft or $1,200–$2,500+.
  • Spread = higher cost: multiple mud tubes, discarded wings in several rooms, or hollow wood in different areas signal broader coverage and higher totals.

Home size, foundation, and access considerations

Your termite treatment quote scales with how much structure a pro must reach and treat. Larger homes mean more linear footage around the foundation, which drives up liquid or bait pricing; whole‑structure jobs like fumigation typically key off total square footage. Foundation type also changes labor: slabs often require drilling through concrete; crawl spaces and basements may need trenching, plus extra time if access is tight or obstructed. Make sure your quote shows the measured footage and any access surcharges so you can verify the math.

  • Home size = footage: longer perimeters need more termiticide or more bait stations.
  • Slab foundations: expect drilling/patching at garages, porches, and walkways.
  • Crawl/basement: low clearance, debris, or moisture issues increase labor.
  • Obstructions: decks, landscaping, and hardscape can add drilling or limit coverage; exclusions should be listed.

Termite inspection and WDI/WDO reports

Every accurate termite treatment quote starts with a thorough inspection. Expect a tech to look for swarmers and discarded wings, mud tubes, frass, hollowed or damaged wood, and moisture issues in attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Typical pricing is $75–$200—or free when bundled with treatment from many providers. Ask for a simple diagram marking activity and conducive conditions; it will help you verify scope and compare bids.

A formal WDI/WDO report (“termite letter”) is a documented inspection many pros can provide and is often used in real estate. A quality report should include:

  • Findings and species: active vs. inactive evidence, likely termite type.
  • Labeled diagram/photos: locations of activity and inaccessible areas.
  • Conducive conditions: moisture, earth-to-wood contact, debris.
  • Recommendations: treatment type and monitoring plan, if needed.

If there’s a separate fee for the WDI/WDO, make sure it’s noted in the quote.

Warranties, bonds, and guarantees: what’s covered, what’s not

The warranty section of your termite treatment quote tells you how protected you’ll be after day one—and what it costs to stay protected. Expect ongoing fees tied to coverage (typical renewals: liquids ~$100–$300/year; bait monitoring ~$300–$500/year). Coverage types vary widely, so match the promise to your risk tolerance and budget.

  • Retreatment-only warranty: Free re-inspections and re‑treatments if activity returns; no repair money.
  • Damage‑repair bond: Pays to fix new termite damage while under contract; caps vary (e.g., $250,000 with some national plans; some offer up to $1M).
  • Satisfaction/money‑back guarantees: Time‑bound performance promises (e.g., 30‑day satisfaction windows) on service results.
  • Fine print to verify: Renewal requirements, coverage caps and exclusions (pre‑existing damage, inaccessible areas, unresolved moisture leaks), response time, transferability, and cancellation terms.

How to compare quotes side-by-side (with checklist)

Line up each termite treatment quote and make them answer the same questions. Your goal is to verify the scope, the math, and the protection—then choose value, not just the lowest price. Start by confirming the species and where activity is, then ensure all bids price the same measured footage or square footage using comparable methods.

  • Scope & species: Clear diagram, activity locations, and termite type.
  • Measured footage: Linear feet or sq ft listed for each area.
  • Unit rates shown: Per‑foot or per‑sq‑ft pricing you can recalc.
  • Math transparency: Totals include drilling, trenching, patching, and disposal.
  • Method & products: Liquid, bait, or tenting—plus product names.
  • Follow‑ups: Number/timing of monitoring or rechecks included.
  • Warranty type: Retreatment vs. damage repair, coverage cap, response time.
  • Renewals: Annual costs and requirements to keep coverage valid.
  • Exclusions: Inaccessible areas, moisture fixes, decks/slabs not included.
  • Logistics: Prep steps, timeline, re‑entry, and access surcharges.
  • Credentials: License, insurance, and WDI/WDO report fee if needed.
  • Out‑the‑door price: All fees, taxes, and optional add‑ons separated.

sanity check: total = (unit rate × measured footage) + surcharges + taxes/fees

Smart questions to ask each provider

Before you sign, ask each provider the same set of questions so you can compare apples‑to‑apples. Your goal: confirm scope, pricing math, and protection terms in your termite treatment quote, and surface any surprises (access, drilling, renewals). Document every answer on the quote or in writing.

  • Method fit: Method and product fit for species
  • Pricing math: Measured footage and unit rates, including drilling/patching
  • Scope clarity: What’s included/excluded; access obstacles and surcharges
  • Protection: Warranty type (retreat vs. damage), cap, renewals, response time
  • Follow‑through: Follow‑up schedule and who monitors bait/stations

Red flags in quotes to avoid

A sharp-looking price can still hide weak coverage or sloppy scope. Scan each termite treatment quote for missing measurements, fuzzy methods, or promises that don’t match the species or severity found. If the math isn’t verifiable or the protection is unclear, keep shopping.

  • No measured footage: Missing linear/sq ft and diagram.
  • No unit rates: “Whole house” price with no method.
  • Too‑low pricing: Far below $3–$16/lf or $1–$4/sq ft without reason.
  • Vague warranty: No retreat/damage terms, caps, or renewal costs.
  • No drilling/trenching detail: Especially on slabs/porches/walkways.
  • High‑pressure sales: “Today‑only” discounts without a written scope.

DIY vs professional: costs, risks, and when DIY can work

DIY looks cheap up front: boric acid, diatomaceous earth, orange oil, basic baits, or beneficial nematodes typically run about $15–$35 each and can help with very minor, localized issues. The risk is efficacy and safety—DIY rarely collapses entire colonies, often leaves gaps in barriers, and can expose people or pets to misapplied chemicals. Professional quotes usually include a thorough inspection (often free), calibrated trenching/drilling, and warranties or bonds (retreatment and sometimes damage coverage).

  • DIY can work when: you’re treating a small, isolated spot (e.g., a single trim board or a piece of furniture), doing short‑term prevention/monitoring, or bridging time until a pro visit.
  • Go pro when: you see mud tubes or swarmers, activity in multiple areas, slab drilling is required, or you want coverage. Expect typical pro pricing: spots $200–$600; liquids $3–$16/lf (~$1,000–$3,200 around ~200 lf); bait $1,500–$3,000; tenting $1–$4/sq ft.

Measure your linear footage to sanity-check a bid

Most termite treatment quotes price perimeter work by the linear foot ($3–$16/lf). A quick home measurement lets you verify the footage (and total) you’re being charged for. Measure the exterior foundation and any attached slabs the provider says they’ll trench/drill (garage, porch, patio).

  1. Walk and measure: Use a tape or wheel; record each straight run to the nearest foot. Multi‑story height doesn’t change linear footage.
  2. Include attachments (if in scope): Add edges of attached slabs; exclude detached sheds unless quoted.
  3. Add it up and compare: Your total should be within ~10–20% of the bid; ask for a diagram if it isn’t.

estimated_lf = (2*length) + (2*width) + attached_edges

Tip: convert inches to feet with feet + (inches/12).

When to choose tenting vs spot or perimeter treatments

Deciding between tenting, spot, or perimeter treatments comes down to species, spread, and how fast you need a full reset. Drywood termites hiding in multiple walls typically call for whole‑structure tenting; subterranean termites traveling through soil respond best to perimeter liquids or baits. Match the method to the problem—and verify the math in your termite treatment quote.

  • Choose tenting (fumigation/heat): Widespread drywood activity or many hidden galleries; fast, whole‑home knockdown. Typical pricing: $1–$4/sq ft or $1,200–$2,500+. Add soil/bait afterward to prevent subterranean reinfestation.
  • Choose perimeter liquid: Subterranean mud tubes or soil entry points; rapid barrier at $3–$16/linear ft.
  • Choose bait systems: Long‑term monitoring/colony elimination, or where drilling is limited; $1,500–$3,000 initial plus $300–$500/year.
  • Choose spot treatment: Small, accessible, localized areas; $200–$600.

Ask providers to itemize combos (e.g., tenting + soil barrier) so you can compare apples‑to‑apples.

Preparation, timeline, and aftercare

Good prep shortens downtime and prevents surprises—and your termite treatment quote should spell it out. Clear access lets techs trench, drill, or tent efficiently; the method you choose sets the timeline; and smart aftercare keeps protection active. Plan ahead for pets, kids, and any items stored along the foundation.

  • Before treatment: Clear the perimeter, move planters/firewood, unlock gates, and ensure crawl/attic access. Flag moisture leaks and remove clutter that blocks trenching or drilling.
  • Timeline by method:
    • Tenting: You’ll need to vacate about 2–3 days.
    • Bait systems: Initial install, then roughly 3–6 monitoring visits over 6–12 months.
    • Liquid barriers: Trenching/drilling service with a scheduled follow‑up check per provider.
  • Aftercare & maintenance: Keep renewals current—liquids typically ~$100–$300/year; baits ~$300–$500/year. Fix conducive conditions (moisture, earth‑to‑wood contact), keep the perimeter clear, and follow the re‑inspection/monitoring cadence listed in your quote.

Budgeting for termite damage repairs

Even with the right treatment, plan for fixing what termites weakened or destroyed. Industry data shows repair costs often run $600–$3,000, with severe structural work reaching up to $6,000. Use the inspection diagram in your termite treatment quote to scope repairs, and ask whether the provider performs repairs or refers a licensed contractor so you can price work separately and prioritize safety‑critical items first.

  • Replace damaged boards/joists: $250–$1,000
  • Repair drywall: $300–$900
  • Replace walls/flooring/framing: $1,000–$3,000
  • Moisture removal/water damage repair: $1,350–$6,200

Request a separate line for repairs so you can compare treatment vs. restoration apples‑to‑apples across bids.

Ways to save without cutting corners

You don’t need the cheapest bid—you need the right scope at a fair unit price. Trim waste, not protection. Use your termite treatment quote to control the variables that drive cost without weakening results.

  • Match method to species: Liquids are typically the lowest-cost per linear foot; reserve tenting for widespread drywood; use baits when monitoring is the goal.
  • Leverage free/credited inspections: Many pros waive or credit the fee with treatment—ask for it in writing.
  • Verify the math: Measure your own linear footage to check the per‑foot total.
  • Itemize and phase: Keep essentials (perimeter/active areas), drop noncritical add‑ons, and phase repairs separately.
  • Do the prep yourself: Clear perimeter, open access, move obstacles—avoid access surcharges and extra labor.
  • Fix conducive conditions: Address leaks, grading, and wood‑to‑soil contact to reduce callbacks and future costs.
  • Choose the right warranty tier: Retreatment‑only can save now; upgrade to damage coverage later.
  • Keep renewals current: Staying covered is cheaper than paying restart fees.

Getting multiple quotes: timing, scope, and negotiation tips

The fastest way to a fair termite treatment quote is to collect at least three bids in the same week and make every provider price the exact same scope. Standardize what they measure, how they charge (per linear foot or square foot), and what’s included, so you can compare value—not sales tactics.

  • Standardize scope: Share the same diagram and ask each provider to price the identical measured footage with unit rates, drilling/trenching, follow‑ups, and renewals itemized.
  • Insist on unit pricing: Per‑foot or per‑sq‑ft rates plus measured footage, so you can verify total = unit rate × footage + fees.
  • Get options in writing: Request a baseline (e.g., perimeter liquid) and an alternate (bait or tent), with add‑ons and repairs listed as separate lines.
  • Leverage inspection credits: Many pros waive or credit inspection fees with treatment—ask to see that on the quote.
  • Negotiate renewals smartly: Clarify annual costs upfront (liquids, baits) and ask for caps or multi‑year pricing in writing.
  • Price‑match by unit rate: If a competitor’s per‑foot rate is lower for the same scope/products, ask for a match instead of a blanket discount.
  • Use schedule flexibility: Offer off‑peak or weekday availability to seek a better rate without cutting protection.
  • Document warranties: Confirm retreatment vs. damage coverage, caps, and response time on the quote—not just verbally.

Credentials and compliance: licenses, insurance, and methods

Credentials protect your home, wallet, and warranty. Make sure each termite treatment quote documents who is allowed to apply termiticides, how they’ll apply them, and what happens if something goes wrong. Improper or unlicensed work can void guarantees and violate EPA label law.

  • State license (company & applicator): List license numbers and expiration dates.
  • Insurance: Proof of general liability and workers’ comp; certificate on request.
  • Methods & products: EPA‑registered termiticides with product labels and SDS; application per label (trenching/drilling depths, mix rates).
  • Fumigation/heat compliance: Licensed fumigator, gas monitoring, aeration/re‑entry clearance, and any required permits/notifications in your state.
  • WDI/WDO reporting: Official report available, signed by a licensed inspector.
  • Service records: Diagram, measured footage or station map, and visit logs for warranty.
  • Safety details: Written re‑entry times, prep steps, and handling of drilled areas.

Key takeaways

The right termite treatment quote is specific, measurable, and matched to your infestation—not a vague “whole-house” price. Use the unit benchmarks above to verify the math, confirm the method fits the species, and make sure the warranty and renewals match your risk and budget. Standardize scope across multiple bids so you can compare real value.

  • Confirm species and scope: diagram, activity locations, access notes.
  • Verify unit pricing: measured linear/sq ft × per‑unit rate, plus fees.
  • Match method to problem: liquid, bait, or tenting as appropriate.
  • Check protection: retreat vs. damage coverage, caps, renewals.
  • Standardize and negotiate: same scope, products, and follow‑ups.
  • Plan logistics and repairs: prep to cut labor; budget for fixes.

Ready for a clear, line‑itemed estimate? Get a fast, transparent quote from Redi Pest Control.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

You may use these <abbr title="HyperText Markup Language">HTML</abbr> tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

*