OK, so you have termites. And you've either used our DIY Inspection guide or you've had a company come out to confirm that you have termites. (See the next section for an in-depth look on how to know if you have termites.)
In this scenario you should definitely get a treatment. Read more on different termite treatments types for your home.
When To Take Action Against Termite Infestations & What To Do
The reason for needing to get a treatment is that termites don't just go away. They will continue to eat and eat and eat. And, unfortunately, their food source is your house. Termites feed on cellulose, which is contained in a lot of plant-based materials. One of the termite’s favorite sources of cellulose happens to be wood…which is the primary construction material in homes here in the Dallas area.
If you listen to some companies, they will use scare tactics to get you to buy their services (e.g., your house will fall down if you don't treat it immediately!). But the reality of a termite infestation is that, while serious, it’s rarely a hair-on-fire-I-must-act-today type situation. If left unchecked, they will cause serious damage, however this will be over the course of months and years - not days.
I usually tell people "Hey, you need to get this taken care of as soon as possible so that the damage is minimized to your home. However, the damage the termites will make in the next 1-2 weeks (the time it will take you to find a solution and get it done) is negligible. Therefore, take your time and make the right decision before jumping at the first quote a company gives you."