Alliance Research Finds Significant Lack of Termite Knowledge & Concern from Homeowners Across the U.S.
To help inform termite season efforts, the Professional Pest Management Alliance worked with its consumer research partner, The Harris Poll, to survey the U.S. population about termites. Here are some key findings from the survey:
- Only 45% of homeowners believe that termite prevention is more cost-effective than repairing termite damage.
- Only 36% of homeowners are familiar with common signs of termite infestations (e.g., mud tubes, discarded wings, hollow-sounding wood).
- Only 35% of homeowners take preventive measures to protect their home from termite infestations (e.g., eliminating moisture, routinely inspecting the foundation, preventative termite treatment).
- Less than 1 in 3 (32%) homeowners can identify termites if they see them.
- Less than 1 in 3 (32%) homeowners are concerned about the potential financial costs associated with termite damage to their home.
- Less than 1 in 4 (24%) homeowners are familiar with termite swarming season.
- Only 1 in 5 (20%) homeowners believe termite infestations are a common problem in their geographical area.
- 16% of homeowners would use DIY (do-it-yourself) methods to control or prevent termite infestations over calling a professional.
The Alliance encourages pest control companies to incorporate these findings into their own local media outreach, website articles, customer newsletters and social media content as we head into peak termite season. Interested companies should cite the stats like the example below!
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According to a recent National Pest Management Association (NPMA) survey conducted online by The Harris Poll, less than 1 in 3 (32%) homeowners can identify termites if they see them.
To learn more about the Alliance and its research programs, contact Jim Fredericks jfredericks@pestworld.org.
