Structural Pest Control
Termite Control in San Mateo, CA
101 Exterminators handles termite control in San Mateo as a California-licensed structural pest company, SPCB Lic. #9119, in business since 2005. The median San Mateo house was built in 1965, but Hayward Park and Baywood go back to the 1920s. Which termite you have depends largely on where the property sits between Sugarloaf Mountain and the Bay. We inspect, report by section, then treat.
Warning Signs
Signs You Need Termites Service in San Mateo
We perform thorough visual inspections of all accessible structural wood, attic spaces, crawl spaces, fencing, and exterior wood. Our reports clearly distinguish Section 1 conditions (active infestations requiring immediate treatment) from Section 2 conditions (conditions that are likely to lead to infestation). We issue California-required WDO reports for real estate transactions and carry the licensing required by the Structural Pest Control Board.
Hollow-sounding wood when tapped — galleries eaten from inside
Frass (fine sawdust-like pellets) near baseboards or windowsills — drywood termite excrement
Discarded wings near doors or windows in spring — swarmers leaving to start new colonies
Blistering or bubbling paint on wood surfaces — subterranean tunnel activity underneath
Mud tubes running up foundation walls or piers — subterranean termite foraging trails
Soft or sagging flooring near walls — severe structural damage to subfloor joists
Small holes in wood with discoloration around the edges
Real estate transaction requiring a WDO inspection and clearance report
How It Works
Our Termites Process in San Mateo
Every job follows the same methodical approach — no shortcuts, no guesswork. Here is what to expect when you work with us in San Mateo.
Comprehensive Inspection
Our licensed inspector examines all accessible wood, crawl spaces, attic framing, exterior siding, eaves, and fencing. We document every finding with photos and written notes.
WDO Report & Recommendations
Within 48 hours, you receive a state-compliant Structural Pest Control Report distinguishing active infestations, wood damage, and conducive conditions. No confusing fine print.
Targeted Treatment Plan
We recommend the most effective and least invasive treatment — whether that's localized spot treatment, fumigation for widespread drywood infestation, or subterranean bait systems.
Treatment & Clearance
We execute the treatment per plan, return for any follow-up needed, and issue a Completion Notice clearing the structure once all Section 1 items are resolved.
Why 101 Exterminators
Termites You Can Count On in San Mateo
State-Licensed Inspectors
Our inspectors hold California Structural Pest Control licenses and are compliant with SPCB regulations for both inspections and treatments.
WDO Reports for Real Estate
We issue the Structural Pest Control Reports required for California home sales, refinancing, and VA/FHA loans — accepted by all lenders and escrow companies.
Both Termite Species Covered
Central California has both drywood and subterranean termites. We identify which species is present and apply the treatment protocol specific to each.
Free Re-Inspection Policy
If signs return within our warranty period, we come back at no charge. Our work is backed, not just guaranteed on paper.
Common Questions
Termite Control FAQs for San Mateo
Are termites in the San Mateo Highlands different from the ones near Marina Lagoon?
Usually yes — elevation sorts the species. The Highlands, San Mateo Park and Baywood drain well, so drywood termites (Incisitermes minor) dominate there and leave dry frass pellets under kick-out holes in eaves and window trim. Around Marina Lagoon, Shoreview and the bayshore streets the water table stays high and subterranean termites (Reticulitermes) build mud tubes up foundations instead. The treatments are not interchangeable, so the inspection has to establish which one you have.
Does a slab foundation in San Mateo protect a house from termites?
No — it changes which termite you get. Subterranean termites move up through slab cracks, expansion joints and plumbing penetrations to reach the sill plate, so a slab is a route rather than a barrier. Drywood termites ignore the foundation entirely and enter at exposed beam ends and low-slope roof edges, which the post-and-beam houses in the Highlands and 19th Avenue Park leave open to weather. We check both on slab properties.
When do termites swarm in San Mateo?
Drywood swarms come on warm evenings in late summer and fall; subterranean flights follow the winter rains in late winter and early spring. San Mateo's marine layer holds summer highs in the low-to-mid 70s, which spreads drywood flights across more evenings than hotter inland cities get. Discarded wings on a windowsill or inside a light fixture are what most owners notice first. Save a few — identification changes the treatment.
Local Pest Pressure
Common Pests We Treat in San Mateo
Every area has its own pest profile shaped by climate, housing, and geography. These are the pests we see and treat most often in San Mateo — tap any one to learn how to identify it and what treatment involves.
Termite Control · San Mateo
Free Limited Termites Inspection in San Mateo
CA licensed and insured. Written estimate before any work begins. Same-day response available for urgent situations in San Mateo.