What is a termite, really?
Termites are small social insects that feed on cellulose — the material that makes up wood, paper, plywood, cardboard, even certain natural fabrics. They look a little like pale ants, but they are biologically much closer to cockroaches. In a colony you will find a queen, a king, soldiers and a huge population of blind, soft workers who do all the damage.
In India, the species most homes deal with is the subterranean termite — Heterotermes or Odontotermes. They live underground, walk up through hidden mud tubes, and chew wood from the inside out.
Why termites are so dangerous
- They feed silently — visible damage usually means months of hidden work.
- They can weaken structural beams, door frames and false ceilings.
- They destroy plywood wardrobes, kitchen cabinets and POP-finished walls.
- A mature colony can have over a million workers feeding 24×7.
- Home insurance in India almost never covers termite damage.
How to spot termites early
- Thin mud tubes on outer walls, plinth or skirting — the tube is a covered highway for workers.
- Doors and window frames that suddenly stick or feel "spongy".
- Tiny pin-holes in plywood with a fine sawdust-like powder underneath.
- Discarded translucent wings near windows after a humid evening — that is a swarm.
- A hollow sound when you tap a wooden surface.
The two treatments that actually work
Anti-termite chemical treatments come in two main forms, and a good technician will choose between them based on your property:
- Pre-construction treatment — a chemical barrier laid into the soil before the foundation is poured. The gold standard for a brand-new build.
- Post-construction treatment — drilling small holes at the plinth and slab levels and injecting a termiticide into the soil under and around the structure. This is what 95% of existing homes need.
Beware of "spraying" only. A surface spray on visible mud tubes feels satisfying but does nothing to the underground colony. A genuine treatment requires soil-level chemical injection.
How long does a treatment last?
In Indian conditions, a quality post-construction termite treatment typically holds for 5 to 10 years, depending on soil type, drainage, the chemical used (typically Imidacloprid or Chlorpyrifos based), and how diligently the perimeter is maintained.
Frequently asked questions
Will the chemical smell linger in my home?
Modern termiticides used by professional teams are low-odour and quickly bind to the soil. Most homeowners do not notice any smell after 24 hours.
Do I need to vacate the house during the treatment?
Usually no. Treatments are done at plinth and soil level, not on living surfaces. Pets, children and elderly residents are typically asked to step out for 2–4 hours and that is it.
My wood is "termite-treated plywood". Am I safe?
That label refers to the ply you bought — not to your wall, your beams, or the soil beneath your home. Termites will simply walk past treated ply and feed on the next available cellulose.
How much does termite treatment cost in India?
For a 2BHK apartment, expect roughly ₹3,000–₹6,000 depending on the chemical and the warranty. For independent houses, pricing typically scales with carpet area and number of drill points.
What is the warranty on a treatment?
Reputable pest control companies offer 1 to 5 year written warranties on post-construction treatments. EntoRid offers up to 10 years on premium plans, with documented annual inspections.
Need professional help with this pest?
Book a free inspection with The Indian Pest Control's certified team. Transparent pricing, written warranty, eco-friendly chemicals.