Start here
Quick, low-risk steps
- Preserve wings or a specimen without spreading pesticide.
- Photograph tubes or damage from a safe accessible location.
- Avoid disturbing structural or concealed areas.
- Verify the professional license and treatment label.
- Compare inspection evidence, method, follow-up, renewal, and warranty.
Termite Species Common in Atlanta
Subterranean termites are the most common wood-destroying insects in Georgia. They live in soil and build mud tubes to reach wood above ground. Because they stay hidden, damage can be extensive before you notice it.
Drywood termites are less common but can infest furniture or structural wood without soil contact. Accurate identification is essential because treatment methods differ. A professional inspection can determine the species present.
- Subterranean termites need soil contact and moisture.
- Mud tubes on foundation walls are a key sign.
- Drywood termites produce small, hard pellets (frass).
- Swarming indoors often means an active infestation.
- Identification uncertainty requires a professional assessment.
Georgia Licensing and Regulation
The Georgia Department of Agriculture licenses structural pest control professionals. A company must have a certified operator, and employees must be registered. Always ask for the license number and verify it with the state.
Licensed professionals follow product label instructions and state regulations. They can explain the treatment method, safety precautions, and follow-up plan. Unlicensed operators may use unsafe practices or ineffective products.
- Ask for the Georgia Department of Agriculture license number.
- Verify the license is current and covers termite work.
- The certified operator is responsible for the job.
- Registered employees work under the operator’s supervision.
- Report unlicensed activity to the state regulatory office.
Treatment Methods and Considerations
Liquid soil treatments create a barrier around the foundation. Bait systems use stations to eliminate colonies over time. The choice depends on the species, infestation extent, and property layout.
A professional will explain the treatment area, access drilling or trenching, and product label. They should provide occupant and pet instructions, monitoring plans, and warranty terms. Compare these details across quotes.
- Liquid treatments may require drilling or trenching.
- Bait stations need regular monitoring and replenishment.
- The product label is a legal document; follow all instructions.
- Ask about wood or moisture corrections to prevent recurrence.
- Warranties often require annual inspections and renewal fees.
Comparing Quotes and Making a Decision
Get at least three written quotes from licensed professionals. Each quote should detail the inspection findings, treatment method, and scope of work. Avoid making a decision based on price alone.
Ask about follow-up visits, retreatment conditions, and repair exclusions. A reputable professional will answer your questions clearly and provide a written contract. Take your time to review and compare.
- Written quotes should include inspection evidence and identification.
- Compare treatment area, method, and product label.
- Ask about access drilling, trenching, and cleanup.
- Understand occupant and pet safety instructions.
- Review warranty, renewal terms, and retreatment conditions.
Take this with you
Evidence and scope checklist
- Inspection findings and identification
- Treatment area and method
- Access drilling or trenching
- Product label and licensed application
- Occupant and pet instructions
- Monitoring and follow-ups
- Wood or moisture corrections
- Repair exclusions
- Renewal terms
- Warranty or retreatment conditions
Common questions
What homeowners ask next
How do I know if I have termites in my Atlanta home?
Look for mud tubes on foundation walls, hollow-sounding wood, or discarded wings near windows. A professional inspection can confirm the presence and species.
What should I ask a termite professional before hiring?
Ask for their Georgia license number, treatment method, product label, safety instructions, follow-up plan, and warranty terms. Verify the license with the state.
Are termite treatments safe for my family and pets?
Licensed professionals follow product label instructions to minimize risk. They will provide specific occupant and pet instructions. Discuss any concerns before treatment begins.
Evidence
Sources used for this guide
Research checked July 31, 2026
- Termites: how to identify and control themU.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Identification uncertainty, licensed treatment, and label-compliant control.
- Introduction to Integrated Pest ManagementU.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Multi-step prevention, monitoring, and control principles.
Optional next step
Need an on-site professional?
Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.
We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.