Every spring around this time, termites begin to swarm. People often notice winged "ants" flying around their windows. These might but ants but are most likely termites swarming out to begin a new colony. Swarms have to have the right temperature at the right time, this year we did have the right combination.

In the last few years, there have been a lot less in terms of swarms than normal, in part because of drought conditions at the time.

So is your home protected?

It is recommended that every home have a termite contract — preferably one with coverage that pays for any retreatments that may be required and covers subterranean termites.

Building codes require that a home be treated before a slab is poured, either with chemicals in the ground or bait stations in the topsoil for subterranean termites, but it's up to the homeowner to extend that initial protection with something such as a termite contract.

When purchasing a previously owned home, the buyer should ask the seller for an active, assumable termite contract with a guarantee to keep the house termite-free or to re-treat and repair any damage. If such a contract isn't in force at the time of the sale, the buyer should require a termite inspection and some form of treatment, along with a new contract.

Contact All Star Pest Control for  an inspection today.