Drywood termites live inside dry wood, leave small six-sided pellets and occur throughout the San Jose area. They are treated locally when the infestation is accessible, or by whole-structure fumigation when it is widespread. A licensed inspection decides which approach fits.
The western drywood termite (Incisitermes minor) is, according to UC Statewide IPM, the second most important termite pest in California. It occurs along the Pacific coast and inland to the Central Valley, a range that includes San Jose and the rest of the Bay Area. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites live entirely inside dry wood and do not need contact with soil.
The most recognizable sign is fecal pellets: small, hard, six-sided pellets that drywood termites push out of their galleries. They often collect in small piles on windowsills, floors or attic surfaces beneath infested wood. Because the colony stays inside the wood, damage can be hidden behind paint or trim.
Treatment depends on how widespread and how accessible the infestation is. UC IPM describes two broad approaches: whole-structure fumigation (tenting) for extensive or inaccessible infestations, and localized or spot treatments for infestations that can be reached and defined. Companies in the San Jose area offer local methods such as orange-oil injections, foams, and heat or microwave treatments, as well as whole-structure heat.
Which approach fits your home is decided after a licensed Branch 3 inspection, and whole-structure fumigation itself must be performed by a Branch 1 licensed company. Through this site you can describe what you have seen and get matched with a licensed local termite company that can inspect and recommend options in writing. See also our pages on termite fumigation and local termite treatment.
What it costs
Prices are not published on this site. Cost depends on the factors in our termite treatment cost guide; a licensed company gives you a free written estimate after inspecting.
How the process works
Send your request
Fill in the form with your address, what you have noticed and what you need (for example a WDO report for a sale). It is a free estimate request.
Branch 3 inspection
A licensed local termite company contacts you to schedule an inspection by a Branch 3 licensed field representative or operator. Under BPC 8516, your written WDO report must arrive within 10 business days of the inspection and before any work begins.
Written proposal
The company explains the Section 1 and Section 2 findings and gives you a written proposal and estimate. You can verify its license at pestboard.ca.gov/license and compare before deciding.
Treatment and repairs
If you go ahead, the licensed company carries out the agreed work: local treatment, soil treatment or baits, or fumigation by a Branch 1 licensee, plus any wood repairs.
Follow-up
Ask the company about any follow-up inspection, bait monitoring or completion documentation. Warranty terms vary by company, so get them in writing.
Related services
Request a Free Estimate
Please note: This website is an independent referral service. It does not perform pest control, inspections, fumigation or repairs. All work is performed by independent companies licensed by the California Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB). Verify any company's license at pestboard.ca.gov/license.