When I provide homeowners with quotes for both fumigation and a local treatment with borates, many compare only the upfront costs. Sometimes they’ll say, “It’s not much more to tent.” What they’re often overlooking are the additional expenses that come with fumigation.

Hotel Stays

You’ll need somewhere to stay for two to three nights while your home is under a tent. In addition to lodging costs, most families end up eating out during that time, which is typically more expensive than preparing meals at home.

Boarding Pets

If your hotel doesn’t allow pets, or if you’re unable to supervise them during the fumigation process because of work or other obligations, you’ll need to arrange boarding. Depending on the number of pets and the length of the fumigation, those costs can add up quickly.

Tile Insurance

Homes with tile roofs present another potential expense. Because fumigators must walk on the roof while installing and removing the tent, tiles can occasionally crack or break. Many homeowners purchase tile insurance to cover this risk. Tile insurance typically costs 10–20% of the fumigation price. Without it, you’ll be responsible for repairing or replacing any damaged tiles yourself.

Electricity Costs

Large fans are used during fumigation to circulate the fumigant throughout the structure. These fans run continuously for 24 to 48 hours and consume electricity. If your home has solar panels, they won’t generate power while covered by the tent, resulting in a temporary loss of energy production.

Lost Food

Food that is not properly sealed in approved fumigation bags or factory-sealed containers must be discarded. Despite the instructions provided before fumigation, it’s common for homeowners to miss items. We’ve even seen entire freezers emptied because the contents weren’t properly bagged.

Environmental Impact

Sulfuryl fluoride, the active ingredient used in most structural fumigations, is a potent greenhouse gas. While it is highly effective at eliminating drywood termites, it also has a significant environmental footprint compared to localized treatment options.

Looking Beyond the Price Tag

The cost of fumigating a home is often higher than the amount paid to the termite company. When you factor in hotel accommodations, pet boarding, tile insurance, lost food, reduced solar production, and other incidental expenses, the true cost can be substantially greater. For some homeowners, these hidden costs make alternative treatment methods a more attractive option.