How to choose a termite control company? (Hilo: insurance, house)

[Danae]

I could use some tips on choosing a termite control company on the Big Island, if anyone has advice. I live on the mainland, and I'll be coming to the Big Island soon to visit my mother for a couple of weeks. While I'm there, she wants me to get one or two pest control companies to come to her place and give us estimates for termite treatment. (What, doesn't everyone plan activities like this for their tropical vacation?)

Her place is a small 1960s duplex near Kawaihae. We had it tented in July 2008, but it started showing signs of re-infestation a year or so ago, and it sounds like it's worse now. It's drywood, not subterranean termites. The tenting was done by a company based on Oahu, but it doesn't look like they are serving the neighbor islands now.

So, I need to find a company or two. Any tips on what to look for? (I'm assuming that it's not appropriate to actually name names on this forum?.) My mother asked a few neighbors for recommendations, but didn't come up with much. (One neighbor said that she has quit using chemicals, and only uses orange oil. Has anyone else actually used that as an effective treatment?) I usually try to avoid the "big name" chains for things like this, and use a local company instead.....is that a good strategy? Is it a good idea to get more than one estimate?

I'm hoping that we can get by with spot treatments for now, as I'm dreading the thought of tenting again. (I spent my 2008 vacation doing all the house prep for that one, and I'm not eager to repeat. I think that all of the vegetation around the house has finally completely grown back. ) How long does a tenting usually last? Should my mother have been having someone come out every year to check things out and spot treat?

Thanks for any info you might have.

Danae

[OpenD]

I know people who use orange oil soil drenches because it supposedly keep termites away, but I don't think it helps with existing infestations.

[hotzcatz]

We are just starting the search for a termite company ourselves! So far Veterans in Hilo has had a good recommendation, but that's all I know. I don't know if they go to Kawaihae or not, though.

[laurarice]

I use Terminix. And my neighbor has used them for fumigation. For about 30 dollars per month they will give termite insurance which includes twice yearly inspection and payment for any damage done .

[Linrobark]

We had purchased a home on the Hilo side and had signs of termites, bugs and especially those little fire ants. We called Will Kill Will Kill Termites & Pests, Hilo Hawaii - Termite & Pest Control and had them come out and talk about our problems and give us an estimate for all the services. Within one visit, the bugs in the house GONE all the red fire ants that was outside and inside, GONE. We have continual
service now and it is so pleasant to live here without all those pesky bugs. They are so knowledgeable and take the time to explain every step they do and make sure that we are satisfied with the procedure. We would Highly recommend this company.

[Danae]

Thank you, everyone, for your suggestions! That gives me some ideas to start looking.

Would it be unusual to have to fumigate again just 6 years after the last time?

[Linrobark]

No, with the weather here almost anything can be expected. Call Will Kill and talk to a guy named Keith or Scott and he can take time with you about concerns, plus get a estimate before you come so that you don't have to do it while your here. If they don't service your area maybe they can recommend someone that's trustworthy. 808-933-PEST
We had to get ours tented. Most warranties only go for 3 - 4 years. But if you keep up the contract you shouldn't have any problems. I was told by a home owner on the Kona side that the orange oil DID NOT WORK.