Home / Pest Library / Termites
Termites in Delaware
Subterranean termites swarm in spring. A must-check before any home sale.
| Peak season | Mar – May |
|---|---|
| Size | About 1/4 – 3/8 inch |
| Risk | Property damage — structural wood |
| Who treats it | Mosquito & Pest Authority (sponsor) |
How to identify them
Swarmers are dark with two pairs of equal-length wings and a thick waist. Workers are pale and rarely seen. Look for mud tubes on foundations.
Termites in Delaware
The eastern subterranean termite is active statewide and swarms on warm days after spring rain. Swarmers inside the house usually mean an active colony nearby. A wood-destroying insect (WDI) report is commonly requested when a Delaware home is sold.
When they’re active
Swipe to see all 12 months →
What you can do now
- Keep mulch and firewood away from the foundation.
- Fix leaks and keep gutters draining away from the house.
- Save a few swarmers in a bag so a pro can confirm the ID.
When to call a pro
Always call a pro. Termites vs. flying ants is easy to get wrong, and damage happens out of sight. You also need a licensed inspector for a WDI report.
Termites: common questions
Are termites covered by homeowners insurance?
Usually not. Most standard policies exclude termite damage, but policies differ, so check yours or ask your insurance agent.
How do I know if the winged insects in my house are termites?
Termite swarmers have a thick, straight waist, equal-length wings and straight antennae. Flying ants have a pinched waist, longer front wings and bent antennae. Save a few in a sealed bag and call for an inspection.
Do I need a termite inspection when buying a home?
A wood-destroying insect (WDI) report is commonly requested by lenders and buyers in Delaware home sales. Ask your agent or lender what your transaction calls for.
Where in Delaware
Where termites rank on each county’s top-pest list:
- New Castle County Top concern
- Kent County Top concern
- Sussex County Top concern
Towns where termites are on the local top-pest list: