Let’s be honest — termites aren’t exactly dinner-table conversation. But they probably should be, especially if you live in the Bay Area.

Here’s why: Over 90% of California’s area is classified as high-risk for termite infestations. And guess what? According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), California — specifically the Bay Area — falls under Termite Infestation Probability Zone 1, signaling a very high risk without control efforts.

So, if you own a home here, the real question isn’t “Will termites show up?”. It’s “When will they show up, and will I notice in time?”

Why the Bay Area Is Practically Termite Heaven

We’ve got the whole Mediterranean climate thing going on: mild, wet winters, dry summers, and just enough moisture to keep subterranean termites comfortable all year round. Drywood termites? Yep, they’re here too, setting up camp in rafters, fascia boards, and even furniture if they get the chance. And let’s not forget the dampwood termites that love to throw their little swarming parties from August to October.

Older wooden homes in places like San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley? Perfect hiding spots. Throw in shaded yards, leaky gutters, and mulch piled against siding, and you’ve built them a dream home — yours.

The Yearly Game Plan: Break It Down by Season

Instead of thinking about termite prevention as a one-time chore, it’s better to treat it like a loop. Certain months call for certain actions. That way, you stay ahead instead of scrambling after the fact.

Winter (Dec–Feb) – Plug the Leaks and Get Your Bearings

Winter is slower for termites, but it shouldn’t be for you. This is the time to do the following:

• Clean out the gutters. Ensure that downspouts discharge water at least a few feet away from your foundation.
• Check that the soil slopes away from the house since stagnant water attracts termites.
• Peek into the crawl space and make sure that the vapor barrier is intact and the vents are clear. If it smells musty, you may have a humidity problem.
• Fix plumbing drips and outside hose leaks. 
• Move that firewood pile to a minimum of 20 feet away from your home, off the ground.

Quick DIY Tip: While you’re at it, lightly tap any exposed trim or fascia with a screwdriver handle. If it sounds hollow or soft, make a note since it’s a red flag.

Spring (Mar–May) – Swarm Season, and the Perfect Time for a Pro Check

• When temperatures climb and humidity spikes, certain termite species start swarming. Here’s your to-do list:
• Watch out for discarded wings on windowsills and porches.
• Seal gaps around pipes and utility lines. Replace torn window screens.
• Keep mulch low and away from siding (at least 6 inches clearance).
• Trim back plants so sunlight and air can dry the base of your home.
• If you’re planning to get professional termite inspection or treatment packages, spring is ideal.

Summer (Jun–Jul) – Break the Bridges

Subterranean termites love a direct path from soil to wood. Here’s what you can do to keep them away:

• Swap out any wood-to-soil contact with concrete or metal supports for decks, steps, and fences.
• Reseal the deck and double-check ledger boards (that’s where a lot of infestations start).
• Make sure siding stays above the soil line - no burying it in mulch.
• Audit your irrigation system so sprinklers aren’t misting the foundation all day.

Late Summer–Fall (Aug–Nov) – The Dampwood Swarm and the Year-End Tidy-Up

From August through October, Pacific dampwood termites start swarming, usually just before sunset on warm, humid evenings.

• Keep an eye out for large winged insects circling porch lights.
• Replace any water-damaged wood.
• Freshen up paint and caulk around doors and windows. Seal the end grain of exposed wood.
• Check the roof and attic for leaks - moisture up there can draw drywood termites.
• If you skipped the spring inspection, now’s your second chance.

How to Know If You Already Have Guests

You don’t have to be a pest control tech to spot early signs:

• Mud Tubes: Thin, dirt-covered tunnels on foundations or crawl space piers.
• Blistered Paint or Hollow Wood: Sounds papery when tapped.
• Frass: Drywood termite droppings look like tiny sand-like pellets, often in small piles.
• Discarded Wings: Equal in size, stacked up under lights or near windows.

Found one of these? Don’t start spraying random chemicals. Leave it for a pro so they can see the evidence.

Prevention Rules That Work

• Keep things dry - water control is 90% of the prevention.
• Maintain distance - between soil and siding, between plants and walls, between firewood and your home.
• Build smarter - treated lumber, metal post bases, and good flashing are worth every cent.
• Inspect annually - think of it like a dental checkup for your house.
• Document - take photos, keep notes — patterns matter.

The 15-Minute Monthly Walkaround

Do this and you’ll stay ahead:

• Check the foundation and siding gap.
• Probe suspect wood.
• Look for leaks.
• Glance into the attic and garage.
• Trim plants and fix sprinklers.

HiTech Termite Control

Here’s the deal: termites thrive on neglect. Ignore them and you’re offering free rent. But with a little seasonal discipline and a yearly or half-yearly check from our best termite inspection pros, you can keep your home standing strong, your equity intact, and your stress levels nice and low. Contact us here to book your free inspection.

Got Questions About Termite Prevention in the Bay Area? We’ve Got Answers

Q1. Why is the Bay Area at high risk for termite infestations?
The Bay Area’s Mediterranean climate, older wooden homes, and year-round moisture create the perfect conditions for subterranean, drywood, and dampwood termites.

Q2. What seasonal steps should homeowners take in winter to prevent termites?
In winter, clean gutters, slope soil away from the foundation, fix leaks, check crawl spaces, and move firewood at least 20 feet from the home.

Q3. Why is spring considered the best time for a termite inspection?
Spring is swarm season when termites are most active. It’s also ideal for professional inspections, sealing entry points, and reducing mulch near siding.

Q4. What are the common signs of a termite infestation?
Signs include mud tubes on foundations, hollow-sounding wood, blistered paint, frass (droppings), and discarded equal-sized wings near windows or lights.

Q5. How can homeowners prevent termite damage year-round?
Key steps include controlling moisture, keeping soil and siding separate, using treated materials, inspecting annually, and documenting potential problem areas.

Q6. Why should termite inspections be done regularly?
Regular inspections help detect early activity before major damage occurs, protecting your home’s structure, equity, and long-term value.