Three Generations of Termite Expertise

Our family has been protecting Arizona homes from termite damage for over three generations. This deep-rooted experience means we understand not just termites, but also the unique construction methods, soil conditions, and environmental factors specific to Tempe properties. When you choose Bill’s Pest Termite Control, you’re choosing decades of proven expertise and a reputation built on trust, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.

Specialized Arizona Termite Knowledge

Arizona is home to more than 18 different termite species, each with distinct behaviors and nesting patterns. Subterranean termites build colonies underground and attack structures from below, while drywood termites infest wood directly without soil contact. Desert dampwood termites target moisture-damaged wood in areas with plumbing leaks or poor drainage. Our inspectors are trained to identify all species common to Tempe and recognize the subtle signs that indicate active infestations or past termite damage.

Locally Operated and Family-Owned

As a local Tempe business, we’re invested in our community and committed to protecting our neighbors’ homes. Unlike large national chains, we provide personalized service, flexible scheduling, and direct communication with experienced inspectors who genuinely care about your property. Our reputation is built on relationships, referrals, and repeat customers who trust us to deliver honest, thorough inspections every single time.

What’s Included in Your WDIIR:

• Comprehensive Property Diagram: Detailed illustration showing inspection areas and findings
• Active Infestation Documentation: Identification of current termite activity and species present
• Previous Damage Assessment: Documentation of past termite damage and repairs
• Conducive Conditions Report: Identification of moisture issues, wood-to-soil contact, and other risk factors
• Treatment Recommendations: Professional guidance on necessary treatments or preventive measures
• Digital Delivery: Same-day email delivery of your complete inspection report
• 30-Day Validity: Report remains valid for real estate transactions for 30 days from inspection date

Subterranean Termites

These are the most destructive termite species in Arizona and the most common cause of structural damage. Subterranean termites build extensive underground colonies that can contain hundreds of thousands of individual insects. They construct mud tubes to travel from their nests to food sources, protecting themselves from dry air and predators. These termites require contact with soil moisture and typically attack structures from the ground up, targeting floor joists, support beams, and wall studs.

Drywood Termites

Unlike their subterranean cousins, drywood termites don’t require soil contact and infest wood directly. They establish colonies within the wood they consume, making detection more challenging. Drywood termites often target attic framing, window frames, door frames, and furniture. One telltale sign of drywood termite activity is the presence of small, pellet-like droppings (frass) that accumulate beneath infested wood.

Desert Dampwood Termites

These larger termites prefer wood with higher moisture content and are commonly found in areas with plumbing leaks, poor drainage, or irrigation system problems. Desert dampwood termites can cause significant damage to structural timbers, fence posts, and landscape features. Addressing moisture issues is critical to preventing and eliminating dampwood termite infestations.

Mud Tubes

Pencil-width tunnels on foundation walls, crawl spaces, or other surfaces indicate subterranean termite activity. These tubes protect termites as they travel between their colony and food sources.

Discarded Wings

Piles of discarded wings near windows, doors, or light fixtures suggest termite swarmers have established a new colony nearby. Swarming typically occurs in spring and early summer.

Hollow-Sounding Wood

Tapping on wood surfaces that produce a hollow sound may indicate termites have consumed the interior. This is especially common in baseboards, door frames, and window sills.

Frass (Droppings)

Small, pellet-like droppings that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds indicate drywood termite activity. These droppings often accumulate in small piles beneath infested wood.

Sagging Floors or Ceilings

Structural damage from extensive termite feeding can cause floors to sag, ceilings to droop, or doors and windows to stick. These signs indicate significant damage requiring immediate attention.

Blistered Wood

Wood that appears blistered or damaged similar to water damage may actually be termite damage. This occurs when termites feed on wood just below the surface, creating bubbled or uneven areas.

1Exterior Inspection

Our inspectors begin by examining the property’s exterior, including foundation walls, crawl space vents, exterior walls, eaves, and any wood-to-soil contact points. We look for mud tubes, damaged wood, conducive conditions like excessive moisture or poor drainage, and signs of previous termite activity or treatments.

2Interior Inspection

Inside the home, we inspect all accessible areas including basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and living spaces. Special attention is paid to areas where termites commonly enter or cause damage: baseboards, door frames, window sills, closets, and areas near plumbing fixtures where moisture may accumulate.

3Advanced Detection Tools

Our inspectors utilize specialized tools including moisture meters to detect hidden water damage, infrared cameras to identify temperature variations that may indicate termite activity, and probing tools to test wood integrity in suspect areas. These technologies help us identify problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

4Detailed Documentation

For paid WDIIR inspections, we create comprehensive documentation including photographs of findings, detailed property diagrams, species identification, and clear descriptions of any damage or conducive conditions discovered. This documentation meets industry standards and lender requirements for real estate transactions.

5Expert Recommendations

Following the inspection, we provide clear, honest recommendations regarding necessary treatments, preventive measures, and property modifications that can reduce future termite risk. We explain our findings in plain language and answer all your questions about treatment options, costs, and timelines.

How much does a termite inspection cost in Tempe AZ?

The Termite Inspection Cost Tempe Az for a comprehensive Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report typically ranges from $75 to $150, depending on property size, accessibility, and complexity. This fee includes a detailed written report with diagrams, findings, and recommendations suitable for real estate transactions. We also offer Free Termite Inspection Tempe Az services annually for existing customers, though these complimentary inspections do not include written documentation.

How long does a termite inspection take?

Most residential Tempe Termite Inspections take between 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on property size and accessibility. Larger homes, properties with extensive crawl spaces, or homes with multiple structures may require additional time. Our inspectors work efficiently while maintaining the thoroughness necessary to identify all potential issues. For real estate transactions requiring written reports, we provide same-day digital delivery via email.

How often should I have my Tempe home inspected for termites?

We recommend annual termite inspections for all Tempe properties. Arizona’s climate allows termites to remain active year-round, and early detection is crucial for preventing extensive damage. Annual inspections allow our technicians to identify new activity, monitor conducive conditions, and verify the effectiveness of any previous treatments. Properties with a history of termite activity or those in high-risk areas may benefit from more frequent inspections.

What’s the difference between a free inspection and a paid WDIIR?

Our Free Termite Inspection Tempe Az service provides visual assessment and monitoring for existing customers but does not include written documentation. These inspections help identify active termite problems and conducive conditions. A paid Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report (WDIIR) includes comprehensive documentation with property diagrams, detailed findings, photographs, and professional recommendations. This written Termite Report Tempe Az is required for real estate transactions, refinancing, and situations where formal documentation is necessary.

Do I need a termite inspection if I’m buying a newer home?

Absolutely. Termites can infest homes of any age, and newer construction doesn’t guarantee protection. In fact, some modern building practices using engineered wood products can be particularly attractive to termites. Additionally, construction debris left in crawl spaces or soil, landscaping that creates conducive conditions, and irrigation systems can all contribute to termite problems in newer homes. A professional Pest Inspection Tempe Az provides peace of mind regardless of property age.

What happens if termites are found during the inspection?

If our inspection reveals active termite activity or damage, we provide detailed documentation of our findings along with treatment recommendations. We’ll explain the extent of the problem, the termite species involved, and the most effective treatment options. Our team can provide treatment estimates and work with you, your realtor, or the other party in a real estate transaction to develop a solution that addresses the infestation and protects the property. Many termite problems can be effectively treated, and early detection significantly reduces treatment costs.

How long is a termite inspection report valid?

Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Reports are typically valid for 30 days from the inspection date. This timeframe is standard in the industry because termite conditions can change, new infestations can develop, or existing activity can spread. If your real estate transaction extends beyond 30 days, a new inspection or updated report may be required by lenders or other parties to the transaction.

Why should I choose Bill’s Termite Control over other inspection companies?

Bill’s Pest Termite Control brings three generations of family expertise, specialized knowledge of Arizona’s unique termite species, and a commitment to honest, thorough service. We’re locally operated, which means we understand Tempe properties and provide personalized attention rather than treating you like a number. Our inspectors are certified, experienced, and dedicated to protecting your investment. We deliver same-day reports, flexible scheduling, and responsive communication that keeps your transaction moving forward. Most importantly, our reputation is built on accuracy and integrity – we tell you what we find, not what we think you want to hear.