How to Determine if Your Restaurant is at High Risk for Termites

Here’s how to figure out if your restaurant is susceptible to termite problems:

Food has nothing to do with it

Unlike with other pests, such as mice, ants and cockroaches, how you prepare, store and clean up food has nothing to do with avoiding termites. Termites are one of the few pests that don’t share your food sources; instead, they feed exclusively on wood. As a restaurant owner, you should still obviously keep a neat, clean environment and take appropriate measures to store and dispose of food. But it isn’t going to help you avoid termites.

Location, location, location

Termites often get introduced from the outside world, so location is a huge part of your risk level. If you own a restaurant in a strip mall or commercial area, you’re far less likely to encounter termites. However, if there is abundant natural vegetation or soil near your building, you’re more susceptible.

What are you made of?

No, not you personally; what is your restaurant made of? As in, what materials make up your building? If it’s been primarily constructed out of wood, or rests on a wooden foundation, it will make an attractive target for termites.

Is the foundation near soil?

The easiest path for termites to enter is via the foundation, where they will often build “mud tubes” for protection and easier travel. If your restaurant’s foundation comes into contact with soil, termites will have access to it. Be on the lookout for signs of termites in these areas, such as piles of discarded wings or the aforementioned mud tubes.

Keep it dry

Like most pests, termites thrive in damp atmospheres. Therefore, you should ensure that your restaurant remains dry, especially in secluded areas. Crawlspaces, attics, basements and areas that conceal pipes can collect moisture, providing a welcoming atmosphere for termites. Keep these areas dry by sealing cracks and fixing any leaky pipes.