You work hard to take care of your home, so the last thing you like seeing is one small termite problem turning into major damage. UH experts point to our climate and wood-based construction as key reasons. With Honolulu’s warm, humid weather, termite pressure is pretty much nonstop year-round. Small issues can blow up fast if you don’t catch the early signs. This guide breaks down simple maintenance habits, how to spot trouble before it spreads, and when it’s time to call a licensed pro.
Termites are a big deal here. The University of Hawaii Termite Project estimates that statewide, we spend over $100 million each year on termite control and repairs. UH researchers point to the same things local homeowners deal with every day: our humid climate and all the wood in typical island construction.
Moisture is the number one factor. Constant humidity, roof or plumbing leaks, and damp soil near your foundation create ideal termite hangouts. Reducing moisture and cutting down on wood-to-soil contact are some of the easiest, most cost-effective first steps.
Different termites need different treatment. UH’s overview highlights the types Hawaii homeowners see most:
Subterranean termites (including Formosan)
Live in the soil, build mud tubes, and can spread fast. They depend on moisture and usually enter from below.
Drywood termites
Live fully inside the wood and don’t need ground contact. They leave behind small pellet-like droppings called frass.
Catching termites early can save you thousands. UH guidance recommends watching for:
Mud tubes on foundations, posts, or walls
Discarded wings, especially after those nighttime swarm events
Drywood frass (tiny pellets) near window sills or baseboards
Hollow-sounding wood or blistered paint
Warped floors
Visible termite galleries if wood is opened
A little steady upkeep goes a long way. Prevention first, monitoring next, and pros when needed. The steps below reflect UH’s prevention recommendations.
Keep wood off the soil—aim for 6–12 inches of clearance if you can.
Clear lumber piles, cardboard, and yard debris around the house.
Look for mud tubes, frass, and wings around the foundation and crawlspaces.
Keep crawlspaces dry and vents open.
Fix moisture problems ASAP—roof leaks, pipes, gutters, the whole thing.
Make sure water drains away from the house; extend those downspouts.
Trim plants so they don’t sit right up against the walls.
Avoid heavy mulching or planters pressed right up against the siding.
Schedule a professional termite inspection each year. With Honolulu’s climate, yearly checks plus monthly walk-arounds are a smart baseline.
Reseal gaps where utilities enter and fix small cracks in concrete or block walls.
Check irrigation systems to avoid overspray on wooden posts or siding.
If you're upgrading your home, UH’s recommendations for long-term protection include:
Using termite-resistant materials like treated lumber, steel framing, or naturally resistant heartwood.
Adding physical barriers such as termite shields, stainless-steel mesh, or basaltic barriers under slabs.
Sealing gaps and monitoring cracks that could let termites squeeze in.
Some situations are too big to DIY. Here’s what local pros commonly use:
Soil treatments
Creates a treated zone that kills or blocks subterranean termites—used for active issues or prevention.
Bait systems
Professionals place bait stations around the home to target subterranean colonies over time.
Fumigation for drywood termites
When drywood infestations spread throughout a structure, whole-house fumigation is often needed. EPA rules are strict, so ask the company how they follow current sulfuryl fluoride safety requirements.
Always confirm the company’s Hawaii Department of Agriculture certification:
Commercial 7b for termite work
Commercial 7a for fumigation
UH CTAHR has info on state certification categories if you want to double-check.
Prices depend on the home, species, and treatment type. Local estimates show treatments typically range from a few hundred to the low thousands, while whole-home fumigation often starts in the low-thousands range and can go higher depending on complexity.
For context, see recent Honolulu cost ranges from HomeYou’s local estimates, then request at least two written quotes from licensed providers for your specific situation.
Termite inspections are standard in Hawaii real estate. Buyers, sellers, and lenders often require an official termite inspection report from a licensed structural pest control operator. When scheduling, confirm the company’s certification and ask about monitoring or warranty options, especially helpful during closing. Check with me about which local companies we recommend.
Taking care of your home here is all about steady habits and getting the right help at the right time. If you’re buying or selling in central Honolulu and want guidance with inspections, vendors, and prepping your home wisely, reach out anytime.
How often should Honolulu homeowners get termite inspections?
Annual professional inspections plus monthly checks are recommended because termite activity never really slows down in Hawaii.
What are the main signs of termites in a Hawaii home?
Mud tubes, discarded wings, drywood frass, hollow wood, blistered paint, and warped floors.
What’s the difference between drywood and subterranean termites?
Drywood termites live inside the wood; subterranean termites live in soil and build mud tubes.
Is fumigation safe for people and pets in Hawaii?
Yes, when done by licensed applicators following strict EPA and state rules, including aeration and clearance testing.
How much does termite treatment cost in Honolulu?
Most treatments run from the several-hundred range to the low-thousands, with fumigation usually costing more. Written quotes from licensed pros will give you the clearest number.
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Specializing in mid-century, modern Hawaii homes, her desire to broaden the scope of the service has been successfully achieved as a 5-time award winner of the Top 100 agents in Hawaii by Hawaii Business Magazine.