Are termites harmful to humans?

Termites are harmful to humans in that they can eat a home from the inside out. But unlike some other insects, termites don’t carry infection, nor do they bite or feed off people like parasitic bedbugs. So while they’re not harmful to your health, they can be extremely harmful to your wallet. The EPA reports that every year termites cause billions of dollars of structural damage in the United States. Immediate action and treatment is the best approach if you see signs of termites. The national average cost for an exterminator ranges from $250 to $400, but costs may be higher if you have a whole house infestation on your hands. Here are a few examples of average cost:

• Standard liquid treatment of subterranean termites: $3-$4 per linear foot. An extermination company may have a minimum service fee, such as $150, to come out and provide treatment, no matter how small the space.
• Liquid treatment of subterranean termites including foaming and drilling into concrete slabs: $4-$5 per linear foot.
• Liquid treatment of a 2,000-square-foot home for subterranean termites: approximately $400.
• Fumigation treatment of drywood termites: $1,200-$1,500 for a 30,000- to 35,000-cubic-foot home. Pros measure fumigation costs in cubic feet. Fumigation costs can also be affected by the number of stories in your home.