Many companies are using a combination of baiting systems and spot treatments as part of an integrated termite management system. Baiting for termites is not always satisfactory, even when done by experienced professionals. In addition, professional baiting programs include special, non-toxic bait tubes that enable the applicator to monitor termite feeding activity at bait sites. The paper used in baits tend to decay and decompose after a month or so in the soil. For this reason, stations need to be replaced as often as every 3-4 months, adding to the cost.
Commercial baits require continual monitoring and maintenance.
A money-back guarantee is insufficient insurance against the costs of expensive repairs due to termite damage. Even the manufacturer of Terminate stations acknowledges that homes with active infestations should be inspected and treated by a termite control professional. Nematodes have not proved effective in treating termites in actual structures and cannot be recommended. It has been used successfully to treat isolated, above-ground colonies of drywood, powderpost and subterranean. Fungal treatments should be used in combination with a professionally applied soil treatment when used against subterranean termites.