NPMA Technical Bulletin: Termite Treatments and Flooding

Hurricanes, strong storms, heavy rains and other extreme weather events can impact the termite protection afforded by a professional termite treatment. Flooding can affect soil treatments by washing away treated soil or depositing mud, soil, or sand on top of treated areas. Termite bait systems may be compromised when soil or debris is deposited on top of stations or if equipment is disturbed or removed by flooding or the renovation process. Repair and replacement of treated wood or other structural components may also compromise the termite protection provided to homeowners. Pest management professionals can help to protect their customers’ homes by determining if termite protection has been compromised by flooding or extreme weather events.

In accordance with EPA PR Notice 96-­‐7 termiticide labels allow for retreatment if disruption of the treated soil has taken place:

"Retreatment for subterranean termites can only be performed if there is clear evidence of reinfestation or disruption of the barrier due to construction, excavation, or landscaping and/or evidence of the breakdown of the termiticide barrier in the soil. These vulnerable or reinfested areas may be retreated in accordance with application techniques described in this product's labeling. The timing and type of these retreatments will vary, depending on factors such as termite pressure, soil types, soil conditions and other factors which may reduce the effectiveness of the barrier.”

Flooding alone does not typically require supplemental treatment as most modern professional liquid and bait formulations are capable of withstanding short periods submerged under standing water, but flooding by swift moving water almost always requires retreatment. However, the following conditions can affect existing termite treatment areas and re-­‐treatment may be an option to consider:

•Soil erosion next to foundations that results in the removal of termiticide treated soil or bait stations
•Movement of treated soil during the renovation or repair process
•The deposition of soil, silt or sand or other materials on top of termite treated areas or bait stations
•Movement of foundation walls, patios, porches or other structural elements
•Disturbance of treated soil due to removal or replacement of damaged landscaping
•Repairs to the structure resulting in movement of soil or replacement of treated wood or other structural components

Consumers should contact their pest management professional for a comprehensive evaluation of the site to determine if additional treatment is required.

Homeowner’s insurance policies may cover some or all of the expenses associated with restoring termite protection around a structure. Homeowners should check with their insurance company to determine if their policy covers this type of damage.

Please contact NPMA’s Technical Director, Jim Fredericks, at jfredericks@pestworld.org with any questions.