Termite treatment cost: what you'll actually pay in 2026
Termites do an estimated $5 billion in U.S. home damage every year. Most homeowners don't think about them until they see swarmers or hollow wood — by which time the colony is established. Here's what 2026 pricing actually looks like and how to decide between prevention and full treatment.
Inspection: $0–$200
Most exterminators offer free inspections for active infestations; standalone real-estate transaction inspections run $75–$200. Always get a written report identifying species (subterranean, drywood, Formosan) and damage extent. Skip any inspector who can't tell you the species.
Liquid soil treatment: $700–$2,500
Trenching and treating around the foundation with termiticide (Termidor SC, Premise, Altriset) is the standard for subterranean termites. Pricing depends on linear footage. The treatment lasts 7–10 years and is typically warrantied. This is the right move for active infestations or pre-construction prevention in TIP Zone #1 states.
Bait stations: $1,200–$3,500 install + $300/yr monitoring
Sentricon and similar in-ground stations work continuously and eliminate colonies rather than just creating barriers. Higher upfront but lower long-term cost than liquid retreats. The right call for environmentally sensitive properties or homes with extensive landscaping.
Fumigation (tenting): $2,500–$5,000+
Whole-house fumigation is for drywood termites (coastal CA, FL, HI). The home is tented and Vikane gas is released. Cost scales with cubic footage. Adds 2–4 days out of the house. Reserved for drywood; never necessary for subterranean termites.
Termite bonds / warranty contracts
Many pros offer annual renewals ($200–$400/yr) covering re-treatment if termites return. Worth it in TIP Zone #1 states (FL, TX, GA, SC, NC, MS, AL, LA, AR, OK, MO, TN, KY); optional in Zone #2; usually skip in Zone #3. Read the warranty carefully — most exclude damage repair.
Prevention is dramatically cheaper than damage repair. If you're in a TIP Zone #1 state, an annual inspection plus an active treatment system is non-optional. If you're in Zone #3 (northern climates), an inspection every 3–5 years is enough.