by Richard Fagerlund
Scripps Howard News Service
Q: I would like to know if, when there is evidence of inactive termite infestation in a structure, it is possible the termites simply went away on their own? Does this ever happen?
A: It is not likely. Generally, if you have termite evidence but no termites, and there is no evidence the home has been treated, then the termites just moved to a part of the house where they aren't visible. If you are buying a house and there is termite evidence, you should have the seller treat the house by a reputable company.
If you are already living in the home, I would recommend you get the house treated. There isn't any good reason for termites to leave a perfectly good food source (your home) unless they are forced out.
For more information about termites and other insect pests, consult Richard Fagerlund's book, Ask the Bugman.
(Send questions for Richard Fagerlund to University of New Mexico Environmental Services, Physical Plant Department, 1818 Camino del Servicio N.E., Albuquerque, N.M. 87131-3500 or e-mail fagerlun@unm.edu.)
Resources Ask the Bugman!: Environmentally Safe Ways to Control Household Pests
by Richard Fagerlund, Johnna Lachnit (ISBN: 0826328350)
University of New Mexico Press, April 2002
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