We would be working with Ehrlich Pest control. They suggested Bait traps. We want to use the deterrent that is least harmful to the outside critters and the environment. 

Hi Peg and Bill, 

Termite infestation risk: It can be difficult to determine risk since there are many factors at play and conditions can vary drastically throughout Maryland. Termites naturally occur in the environment and can easily be found in many areas- this does not necessarily mean they will infest your home.

Since there isn't a history with termite infestations, you may be able to base your decision off of that.  Some homeowners decide to utilize a preventative termite plan for a couple years to test out the area and then decide to cancel the plan. And some homeowners only treat their ground floor lumber, do not take any other preventative measures, and do not experience any termite infestations.

Generally we have seen some recommendations where if an inspection is done of the surrounding area and there is clear evidence of nearby termite activity or suspected sites (tree stumps, buried wood log, etc.), then that may provide some justification as to why someone may choose to use preventive termite measures.

High humidity can promote termite infestations. Make sure that crawl spaces are well ventilated. Some other termite risk factors to be aware of include direct contact of soil, mulch, or leaves with any wooden part of the house, or with siding or insulation (provides an entry point for termites), excessive water accumulating against the foundation, and moist wood (this includes water from poor drainage, gutter downspouts, air conditioner condensation, leaky faucets, or excessive irrigation). 

Termite bait systems: Bait systems can be important and effective tools for termite management. It is generally about weighing the pros and cons. There are also different types of bait systems. Some bait systems are only used for monitoring and some are used for monitoring and chemically treating termites. We would recommend reading this NC State Extension webpage (https://entomology.ces.ncsu.edu/urban-medical-pest-management/termite-baiting-systems/) which nicely lays out information about termite bait systems as well as soil-applied liquid termiticide, and their pros and cons; as well as other important considerations. Some termite baits can be purchased online, but if there are concerns of nearby termite activity, effective bait systems require ongoing surveillance and potential follow-up actions (such as adding more bait stations or combining bait stations with soil-applied liquid termiticide), which is generally best done by professional pest control companies. This University of Kentucky extension page discusses considerations for do-it-yourself termite baits: https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef642. Always read and follow all label directions for safe use of any pesticide. 

Environmental Friendliness: Bait traps can be more environmentally friendly compared to liquid treatments due to the chance of nearby water contamination (with liquid treatments). Baiting systems are typically a very target-specific approach to controlling termites and greatly reduces the amount of pesticide that is applied. And generally the pesticide that is used in bait systems are insect growth regulators (IGRs) which mimic hormones in young insects, disrupting insect growth and maturation, eventually leading to death. Since IGRs act on systems unique to insects (or close relatives), they are less likely to affect other organisms like mammals; generally low in toxicity.

Shopping for pest control companies: You could try getting quotes from other professional pest control companies and/or ask for recommendations from neighbors to see if there are differing costs before making a final decision. Shop for a pest control company as you would for a doctor or any other professional service. Most companies provide free estimates, at which time they discuss a treatment plan, cost, and of equal importance, warranties. Compare recommended treatment programs and estimates among several companies. Companies should fully disclose information on the chemical that they will be using in the treatment.

Companies that are members of the Maryland Pest Control Association and the National Pest Management Association have access to all current treatment practices. You can check a company's reputation by calling the Better Business Bureau. Make certain that the company has an active certification license from the Maryland Department of Agriculture Pesticide Regulation Section.

Being aware of termite infestation signs: Keep an eye out for any signs of termite infestation like the presence of dirt tunnels or "shelter tubes", soil packed in cracks or crevices, cracking or sagging floors, dark or blistering wood paneling, and/or blistering or peeling paint on wood.

For more general information about termites and what signs of their damage can look like, please see our UMD Extension page on termites: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/termites/.

Feel free to send us any photos if you need help with identification.

Emily