In Part 1, we discussed everything from rushed inspections to inspectors showing up in cars not trucks. Here are five more red flags to watch out for when getting multiple termite inspections:

1. Branded Treatments 

When a company sells a service like “Killfoam” or “Truguard,” it’s usually just a marketing tactic. In reality, there are only a few proven methods for effective termite treatment: fumigation, local treatments with Termidor, subterranean soil treatments, and, in some cases, heat treatments. (Heat can be effective, but only when applied by a highly experienced and meticulous technician—otherwise, it often fails.)

Big companies brand their treatments to make comparisons harder and justify higher prices. Don’t be fooled. For example, Truly Nolen’s “Total Termite Protection” is essentially a combination of a local drywood treatment, a preventative borate spray, and a soil treatment for subterranean termites. They often include an inter-wall spray, which sounds impressive but does little—especially in insulated walls. Spraying a bit of chemical on some studs won’t stop a termite infestation.

2. The Orange Oil Illusion

Orange oil is marketed as a natural, tent-free alternative. In the best-case scenario—minimal infestation and full access to the infested wood—it might work. But in most cases, it kills only the termites it directly touches. The rest simply move away from the smell, which they can detect. Within weeks, the orange oil evaporates, and the termites return.

Most people don’t realize that orange oil is essentially D-limonene—a solvent similar to turpentine. But “orange oil” sounds safe, pleasant, and natural, so it continues to sell. Meanwhile, more proven products like Termidor remain relatively unknown to the general public.

3. Cozy Realtor Relationships

A common way for newer companies to gain business is by aligning closely with real estate agents. The agent gets a go-to inspector who won’t delay the deal; the termite company gets steady leads. But problems arise when the realtor is responsible for gathering multiple bids and subtly steers the outcome. If someone has made them money for years, who do you think they’re loyal to?

When termite companies rely heavily on realtor partnerships, objectivity can go out the window. Always get independent evaluations.

4. The Lone “Outlier” Finding

If three companies inspect your home and only one finds an issue—especially in a hard-to-access area—be cautious. Ask to see proof. A good inspector should be able to show you what they found, whether through photos or a walk-through. If they can’t—or won’t—it may not be a real issue.

That said, if they can show you something the others missed, it may actually be a positive. But never take someone’s word alone—always ask for evidence.

5. Selling Based on “Conditions Conducive”

San Diego has the perfect climate for drywood termites. That doesn’t mean your home currently has them. Some companies use “conditions conducive” (like excess moisture, faulty grading, or cellulose debris) as a way to upsell unnecessary services.

Yes, those conditions can lead to an infestation—but that doesn’t mean they have. Regular inspections and knowing the signs of an active infestation are what matter most. Not sure what to look for? [Visit this page.]

A Broken Industry Model

Sadly, the termite industry has become saturated with salespeople posing as inspectors, and sales managers running branches like sales offices—not pest control operations. I’ve worked at companies where team meetings focused entirely on closing rates and average sale amounts—not treatment methods or inspection accuracy.

Top salespeople get praised. Technicians are overloaded. Customer satisfaction is only discussed when complaints roll in. Month-end pushes create a frenzy of revenue targets, and corners get cut just to hit numbers. It’s a cycle—and customers often pay the price.

Final Thought

If a termite company feels more like a sales pitch than a service call, trust your gut. The best inspectors aren’t just trying to sell you something—they’re trying to protect your home.