Los Angeles sits in one of the highest termite-pressure zones in the United States. Between our warm year-round temperatures, aging housing stock, and moisture from coastal air, LA properties face constant risk from both subterranean and drywood termite species. A professional termite inspection is the single most effective way to catch an infestation before it turns into a five-figure repair bill.
Termites need three things to thrive: cellulose (wood), moisture, and warmth. Los Angeles delivers all three, twelve months a year. Unlike cities in colder climates where freezing temperatures slow colony growth, LA's mild winters allow termite colonies to feed and expand continuously.
Many buildings across neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Echo Park, Highland Park, and the Westside were built in the 1920s through 1960s with wood framing, stucco exteriors, and raised foundations. These construction styles give termites easy access points through foundation cracks, wood-to-soil contact, and aging sill plates that have absorbed decades of moisture.
These live in the soil and build mud tubes to reach the wood in your building. Subterranean termites cause more structural damage than any other termite species in the US. They travel from the ground up through foundation cracks, plumbing penetrations, and anywhere wood contacts soil. In Los Angeles, the most common species is the Western subterranean termite.
Warning sign: Pencil-width mud tubes running up foundation walls, inside the garage, or along plumbing pipes. If you break a tube and it gets rebuilt within a few days, the colony is still active.
Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites don't need contact with soil. They fly directly into exposed wood and establish colonies inside walls, attic framing, and even furniture. They're especially common in older LA buildings and are the reason you see tented houses throughout the city.
Warning sign: Small piles of what looks like sand or sawdust near window sills, door frames, or baseboards. These are actually termite droppings called frass, pushed out of tiny kick-out holes in the wood.
A thorough termite inspection in Los Angeles covers every accessible area of the property. Here's what a licensed inspector will examine:
After the inspection, you'll receive a detailed report, known in California as a Wood Destroying Pest and Organisms Inspection Report (WDPO), or more commonly a "Section 1 / Section 2 report." Section 1 items are active infestations or infections requiring immediate treatment. Section 2 items are conditions likely to lead to infestation if left unaddressed.
There are several situations where a termite inspection isn't just smart, it's essential.
Buying or selling a property. Most real estate transactions in Los Angeles involve a termite inspection. Lenders, especially for FHA and VA loans, often require a clear Section 1 report before funding. Even in cash transactions, buyers should insist on one.
You spot warning signs. Swarmer wings near windows in spring, frass pellets on sills, mud tubes on the foundation, doors that suddenly stick, or soft spots in wood flooring all warrant an immediate inspection.
It's been more than two years. If you own a building in LA and haven't had a termite inspection in over two years, you're overdue. Colonies can grow for years before producing visible signs.
After heavy rain. Wet seasons push subterranean termites closer to the surface and can trigger swarming events. If you notice winged insects around the property after rain, don't assume they're just flying ants.
An inspection identifies the problem. Treatment solves it. The two are separate services, and a reputable company will never pressure you into treatment during the inspection itself.
Common treatment options for Los Angeles buildings include localized treatment for isolated drywood colonies, full-structure fumigation (tenting) for widespread drywood infestation, and liquid or bait station treatments for subterranean termites along the foundation perimeter.
Important: In California, termite inspection and treatment must be performed by a licensed Structural Pest Control Operator (Branch 3 license). Always verify your inspector's license through the California Structural Pest Control Board.
Regular professional inspections are critical, but there are steps you can take year-round to reduce your risk.
Eliminate wood-to-soil contact. Pull mulch, soil, and landscaping at least six inches away from the foundation. Replace any wooden lattice, posts, or steps that sit directly on the ground.
Fix moisture problems. Repair leaky faucets, AC condensation lines, and sprinkler heads that spray against the building. Subterranean termites follow moisture, and a damp foundation is an invitation.
Seal entry points. Caulk gaps around plumbing penetrations, utility lines, and where stucco meets the foundation. Screen attic and crawl space vents to keep drywood swarmers out.
Store firewood away from the building. Keep woodpiles at least 20 feet from the structure and elevated off the ground. Termites in a firewood stack can easily migrate to the building.
Squash Exterminating arranges termite inspections and treatment across Los Angeles County and Orange County for single family homes, multifamily buildings and commercial properties. You'll get a clear, honest assessment with no pressure. If treatment is needed, we'll walk you through every option and help you make the right call for your property and your budget.
Call us at (323) 855-3567 or email rikki@squashpestca.com to schedule an inspection.
Free inspections. Fast quotes. Call, text, or send the form and we'll respond within the hour during business hours.
📞 Call or text: (323) 855-3567
✉️ Email: rikki@squashpestca.com
🕐 Mon to Sat 7am to 7pm. 24/7 emergency line.
📍 Based in Los Angeles (90036). Serving all of LA County, Orange County and Burbank.
📋 CA License #9204. Fully insured.
