How to get rid of termites in San Diego County
San Diego County's older wood-frame housing stock and warm, dry climate make it one of the more termite-active regions in the state. Drywood termites fly in during warm evenings, while subterranean termites build up from years of yard irrigation meeting foundation wood.
What you're dealing with
Western drywood termites are the dominant species county-wide, with subterranean termites common in irrigated inland neighborhoods.
How to get rid of termites: step by step
- Inspect exposed wood for damageTap wood trim, fence posts, and eaves with a screwdriver handle; hollow-sounding or crumbling wood is a warning sign worth a closer look.
- Check for discarded wings and pelletsSweep up any piles of small wings near windowsills or tiny pellet-like droppings under wood trim, both signs of an active colony.
- Reduce wood-to-soil contactTrim back mulch, firewood stacks, and wood fencing so they don't touch soil directly against the house foundation.
- Fix moisture sources near the foundationRedirect sprinklers and downspouts away from the foundation, since subterranean termites need consistent moisture to build mud tubes.
- Seal small cracks in stucco and foundationCaulk visible foundation cracks and gaps around utility penetrations to remove easy entry points.
When to call a pro
Termites are not a DIY pest treatment. Once you find live termites, mud tubes, or damaged wood, the colony is already established and needs a licensed inspection to identify the species and the right treatment method.
Check termite treatment cost, or read the signs of termites first.
Get rid of termites in your city
Pick your city for local causes, cost, and same-day service.
North Coastal
North County Inland
East County
South County
Common questions
How much does termite treatment cost in San Diego County?
Spot treatment for a localized drywood colony runs $400 to $1,500, subterranean soil treatment runs $800 to $2,800, and whole-structure fumigation runs $1,500 to $4,500 depending on home size.
Do I need fumigation or spot treatment in San Diego?
Spot treatment works for a single confirmed, accessible colony, while fumigation is recommended when drywood termite activity is found in multiple areas of the structure.
How often should homes in San Diego County get a termite inspection?
Given San Diego County's termite pressure, an inspection every one to two years catches most colonies before they cause structural damage.
Want termites gone for good?
Call for a free inspection and a flat-rate quote across San Diego County.