I consider myself a creative person. Whenever I find a way to perform part of my job more efficiently—whether as a termite company owner, inspector, or technician—I’m eager to adopt it. Over the years I’ve developed a few simple systems and tools that make me more productive while also improving the experience for my customers.

Google Calendar

I keep all of my appointments in Google Calendar. There’s no need for expensive scheduling software.

In each appointment title, I include the customer’s name, phone number, and appointment type. When I’m on my way, I can call the customer with just a couple of taps to let them know I’ll be arriving soon. The address also links directly to Google Maps, making navigation effortless.

If a customer decides to move forward with treatment after an inspection, I simply duplicate the appointment, make a few adjustments, and the treatment is scheduled. I can also search a customer’s name and instantly view every interaction I’ve had with them.

Reusable Shoe Covers

Most homeowners appreciate when I wear shoe covers inside their home. Disposable covers, however, tear easily—especially over work boots—and they’re not waterproof. If my boots are wet, they can allow moisture or dirt to seep through onto the customer’s floors.

Reusable shoe covers are much more durable. I can wash and reuse them many times before they need replacing, which is better for both my customers and the environment.

Equipment Bag

I carry a dedicated equipment bag containing my knee pads, work gloves, face masks, towels, and a handheld vacuum.

Before using the bag, I’d often waste time searching through my truck for those items. Carrying a ladder along with several loose tools was awkward. Now I simply grab the bag in one hand and the ladder in the other, making it much easier to move efficiently from truck to house.

Modified Work Gloves

Every termite inspector wears gloves, but I make one small modification—I cut the thumb off one glove.

That allows me to operate my phone and take photos in attics and crawl spaces without constantly removing and putting my gloves back on.

16-Ounce Sprayer

Before starting my own termite company, every employer supplied me with a one-gallon sprayer. Carrying that through attics, crawl spaces, and up ladders was cumbersome.

Then I discovered that B&G makes a 16-ounce sprayer. It clips onto my belt, keeps both hands free, and dramatically improves my mobility—especially when climbing ladders or maneuvering through tight spaces.

Portable Sprayer

Many termite companies use spray rigs permanently mounted in the bed of a pickup truck. That works well if you can park close to the house.

I prefer a portable sprayer on wheels that I can roll right to the front door. It doesn’t matter whether I have to park on the street or in an alley. I also avoid driving a truck weighed down with a heavy spray rig on days when I’m only performing inspections, which saves fuel and leaves my truck bed available for other uses.

Clear Caulk

Local termite treatments require drilling small holes, injecting the termiticide, and sealing the holes afterward.

Matching a homeowner’s paint or wood stain is nearly impossible, especially on exposed eaves or wood-paneled ceilings. Many companies use white caulk or wood putty, which can leave noticeable blemishes.

I prefer clear caulk because it blends in much better and is often nearly invisible once applied.

Termite Treatment Bag

I used to wear my sprayer on my belt while carrying a tool belt around my waist. Crawling through attics and crawl spaces that way was awkward and restricted my movement.

Now I place my sprayer, drill, and treatment tools in a small collapsible bag that moves with me. It’s much easier to maneuver through confined spaces and keeps everything within reach.

Why This Matters

These may seem like small improvements, but together they make a meaningful difference for my customers.

The more efficiently I can inspect and treat a home, the less time I spend inside it. Better mobility allows me to reach areas that are difficult for many technicians to access, which can sometimes eliminate the need for fumigation. Working efficiently also helps keep my operating costs down, allowing me to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality.

At the end of the day, these aren’t just tricks that make my job easier—they’re small improvements that help me provide better service.