Termite Fumigation Services

When termites have taken over and the infestation is too widespread for spot treatment, fumigation becomes the most reliable way to eliminate every last termite. At Vanguard Termite Control, we provide safe, professional, and thorough termite fumigation services across San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, and surrounding cities.

Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or protecting it for the long term, our licensed fumigation experts ensure your property is completely termite-free—with minimal hassle and maximum peace of mind.

What is Termite Fumigation?

Termite fumigation, also called tenting, is a whole-structure treatment that involves sealing your property with an airtight tent and releasing a fumigant gas that penetrates walls, floors, attics, and every hidden termite colony.

Unlike local treatments that target visible or accessible areas, fumigation reaches:

• Drywood termites hidden deep inside wood beams, walls, or roof structures

• Widespread or undetectable infestations

• Termite eggs and hard-to-reach colonies

The process is highly effective, eliminating 100% of termites when done properly.

When is Fumigation Necessary?

While not always required, termite fumigation is the best and sometimes only solution in these situations:

1. Widespread Drywood Termite Infestation

Drywood termites don’t need soil contact—they live inside walls, attics, and structural wood. If multiple areas of your home show signs of infestation, spot treatment won’t be enough.

2. Failed Spot Treatments

If you’ve treated a termite problem before and it keeps returning, it’s a sign that the colony was never fully eliminated. Fumigation can solve what patch treatments couldn’t.

3. During Real Estate Escrow

Fumigation is often recommended or required when termite activity is found in multiple rooms or inaccessible areas during inspection. We work closely with agents and escrow officers to keep the sale on track.

4. Older Homes with Wood Framing

Older Bay Area homes, especially those with wood siding, crawl spaces, or attics, are more susceptible to drywood termites—and more likely to require fumigation.

What to Expect During the Fumigation Process

Fumigation is a multi-day process that requires preparation, temporary relocation, and post-treatment ventilation. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Inspection & Proposal

Our licensed inspector evaluates your property to determine if fumigation is necessary. If it is, we’ll provide a detailed report and estimate, including timing and prep instructions.

Step 2: Tent Setup

On the scheduled day, our crew will:

• Cover your entire home with a heavy-duty, sealed tent

• Place warning signs and secure the perimeter

• Set up monitoring equipment for safety

Step 3: Fumigation

A fumigant (typically Vikane gas) is released inside the tent. This gas spreads through the entire structure, entering every crack and void to kill termites at all life stages. The process usually takes 24–48 hours.

Step 4: Aeration & Re-Entry

Once the fumigation period is complete:

• We remove the tent and begin a ventilation process

• The home is tested with sensitive equipment to ensure no harmful gas remains

• You receive clearance documentation, allowing safe re-entry

What Needs to Be Removed Before Fumigation?

To protect your health and belongings, you’ll need to:

• Vacate the home (including pets and plants) for 2–3 days

• Remove all food, medications, and dental products not sealed in special bags

• Turn off gas services (we’ll coordinate with your utility provider)

• Uncover mattresses with plastic covers

• Unlock all rooms and closets for full access

We’ll provide a full checklist and walk you through every step beforehand.

Is Termite Fumigation Safe?

Yes—when performed by licensed professionals. Fumigants used in termite control dissipate completely and leave no residue behind. We use gas detection tools to ensure the air inside your home is 100% safe before you return.

You’ll also receive:

• A re-entry certificate for real estate or peace of mind

• Clear safety documentation

• Post-treatment recommendations to reduce future risk

Termite Fumigation for Real Estate Transactions

If termite damage or activity is found during escrow, fumigation might be required by:

• Lenders (FHA, VA, or conventional)

• Buyers’ inspection contingencies

• Local regulations

At Vanguard Termite Control, we understand how time-sensitive real estate deals are. That’s why we offer:

• Priority scheduling for fumigation

• Quick turnaround on reports and clearance letters

• Communication with agents, buyers, and escrow companies

• Full coordination to keep the sale moving forward

Benefits of Termite Fumigation

✔ Kills All Termites
Unlike spot treatments, fumigation reaches every termite in your structure—even the ones you can’t see.

✔ No Drilling or Surface Damage
Because it’s a gas-based treatment, there’s no need for holes, foam, or chemical residue on your walls or floors.

✔ Long-Term Protection
Fumigation eliminates all active colonies, reducing the risk of repeat infestations for years to come.

✔ Compliance with Lenders & Buyers
You’ll receive a full inspection report and completion certificate to satisfy real estate or lender requirements.

✔ Peace of Mind
Fumigation offers the most thorough form of termite control—giving you confidence your home is truly termite-free.