Termite Inspection

You should ask around to see if termites swarmed in your area. That might explain why you suddenly found them in your house. When termites swarm, they all swarm at once, in the tens of thousands. If they swarmed, then 4-5 is very few. Termites swarmed in my area, some ended up inside my house, I freaked out and called my local bug company, and the guy told me that during a swarm, 4-5 means they came in by accident, but hundreds in your house means they are in your walls. Also, if they are outside your light, that's fine, but if they are inside your light fixtures, it could mean they are living in your attic and fell in through your walls. I went ahead and got my house inspected anyway (it was long overdue for a pest inspection), and I used Omega Termite and Pest Control. I was advised by my local bug man not to sign any binding paperwork before the inspection--don't lock yourself into any agreement, just pay for an inspection, and then ask around for bids if you are unlucky enough to actually have termites. Fortunately, my house was fine, and the inspector told me that termites are actually quite uncommon where I live, so that was a huge relief. Good luck!

I had Terrence from Priceless Termite Control (510) 388-7749 come out to my house for an inspection last week. As we walked around the inside and outside of my house, Terrence explained the specific signs of termite infestation he was looking for. He also came across as being professional and knowledgeable in how he answered my many questions. The price for the inspection was reasonable, and it will be applied toward the extermination or preventive treatment if it's determined necessary. Overall, a very positive experience.

Thanks both of the responders for your helpful responses.  One last question - I called one company and was told a total inspection would be $550 and a less extensive inspection would be $395.  Does that fit within the range of what you paid?  It seems quite high to me, but I don't know.