NPMA Discusses "Inside Edition" Termite Control Segment
SHOW SYNOPSIS AND FINDINGS
An Inside Edition segment aired on sales practices associated with termite inspections. The segment aired on Thursday, November 21st on broadcast stations throughout the country. Giving credence to problems caused by termites, the piece was introduced with the correct assertion that termites cost homeowners $5 billion in damage each year. The story focused on a Texas home pre-inspected by two pest management experts who confirmed there was no termite damage or activity present on the property. With hidden cameras rolling, professionals from 15 pest management firms were called to the home to perform termite inspections. The vast majority of companies contacted found no evidence of termites and left the home without incident.
Video Credit: Inside Edition
One of the companies did report evidence of termites, though it appeared the technician believed the damage was old as he recommended a protection plan, not treatment. One other technician recommended a protective treatment plan, citing high moisture readings and the high prevalence of termites in the geographic region. Based on the moisture readings and location of the house, he speculated that the likelihood of the home having termites in the future was near 100%, though later downgraded that estimate to 70%-90% likely. The segment concluded that homeowners should be aware of recommendations for expensive termite treatments.
TALKING POINTS
While the segment did not suggest improper activities, rather offered only caution to viewers, industry professionals may field inquiries from current or prospective customers who viewed last night's episode of Inside Edition. Accordingly, the following talking points may serve as a helpful resource.
Is it true that termites cause $5 billion in property damage?
Yes. According to the National Pest Management Association, that is an accurate estimate of the incredible damage these pests can cause for homeowners, damage that's generally not covered by homeowners' insurance.
What's the difference between a termite treatment and a preventative termite treatment?
Remedial termite treatments are performed once active termite activity is confirmed. Such activity may present as tunnels formed by termites, damaged wood, or termite swarms, among other things. Once conducted, termite treatments are normally effective in controlling and protecting the structure from termites for several years.
Preventative treatment is prudent and is especially recommended when a home is believed to be at risk for termites. Risk factors include geographic region, moisture readings within the home, a home's age and construction, etc. Pest management professionals can advise homeowners on conditions that may make a home at risk for termite infestations and may present options for preventative treatment.
Is it appropriate to have preventative termite treatments?
The
National Pest Management Association encourages homeowners to talk with pest management professionals about whether preventative termite treatments are recommended for their home. For some homes, and especially those in termite-prone areas or where home conditions are favorable for termites, preventative treatment can be very effective in preventing against termites and the costly damage they do. In many regions of the country, preventative pre-construction treatments are mandated by building codes.
Why is moisture a predictor of termite activity?
Some kinds of termites thrive in moisture-rich environments and accordingly, high moisture readings can suggest an environment that may be attractive to this destructive pest.
Can a technician identify evidence of termite damage?
Sometimes termite damage is very easy to identify and other times, it can be hidden, and that is why it is important to have annual inspections performed by knowledgeable and trained professionals. If termite activity is identified, homeowners should receive an explanation of the evidence that was found.
OTHER POINTS
The show did not make a strong distinction between preventative treatments and treatments for active infestations. They discussed both interchangeably, when of course, that is not accurate.
