TERMITE CONTROL NEWS

Subject: Water wells

Let me take this opportunity to answer some frequently asked questions regarding termite control & water wells.

Q: If a house has a well inside the foundation walls can it be treated for termites?

A: Yes! By two different methods:

Baiting Method: With a revolutionary method called "Sentricon" which utilizes bait to kill the termite colonies. The Sentricon® Termite Baiting System has no restrictions around wells and no risk of pollution to the well.

Liquid Method: A liquid treatment may be possible for a partial treatment, but depending upon the construction of the home, there is a very high probability that there will be areas that cannot be pressure treated and therefore, the home will not be completely protected from termite infestation. Let me explain:

Sedgwick County has an ordinance for water wells which states:

Water Wells 7.30.050 Construction and connection requirements. The property owner shall be responsible for meeting the following requirements:

C. The separation distance between wells and soils or foundations that have been treated or pretreated with a sub-surface pressurized application of a termiticide shall be a minimum of 25 feet.

This means that any soil areas covered in concrete (such as porch, patio, garage, and basement floors) cannot be treated within 25 feet of the well. The most common point of entry for termites in our experience has been porch areas, as the porch tends to settle away from the foundation, creating an access point for termites.

Most of the chemical manufacturers do not allow the use of their product on a house that has a well inside. There is one termiticide, Termidor, which can be applied within 10' of the well if the soil is removed, treated, and then replaced. Due to the fact that the entire structure was not treated, the untreated areas are susceptible to termite attack, and the consumer should be aware of this.

The Kansas State Pesticide Law dictates that if a pest control company cannot treat every foot of the property according to the manufacturer's guidelines and the State Code, the invoice and or contract must clearly state that it is a partial, spot, or limited treatment.

I hope this helps to clear up any confusion regarding water wells and termite treatment.

Feel free to pass this information to your associates. If you have any questions please call me.

Chad Betts
General Manager