Termites have always been a serious threat in Southern California, but experts predict that termite activity in 2026 will reach levels not seen in nearly a decade. With warmer temperatures, elevated humidity, and increasingly unstable weather patterns, San Diego homes are entering a high-risk year for infestations. For many homeowners, proactive planning and regular termite inspection services will be more important than ever.
Why Termite Activity Is Increasing in 2026
Climate models and recent environmental trends show a perfect storm of conditions for expanding colonies. Three major factors are driving this rise in termite activity:
• Above-average rainfall from back-to-back wet winters
Moist soil encourages subterranean termite colonies to expand and build additional tunnels. Saturated wood also becomes easier for termites to break down.
• Rising temperatures that extend swarming seasons
Warmth triggers termite swarms. With fewer cold snaps and earlier heatwaves, swarmer flights are expected to occur more frequently and last longer throughout 2026.
• Higher humidity—especially near coastal regions
Drywood termites thrive in humid air, making beach communities and inland zones with increased moisture particularly vulnerable.
These combined factors create ideal conditions for both subterranean and drywood termites, increasing the need for vigilant monitoring and professional termite control.
Early Warning Signs of Termites
Because termites often remain hidden inside walls, attics, crawlspaces, or soil, early detection is critical. Watch for:
- Discarded wings near windowsills or porch lights
- Sawdust-like frass from drywood termites
- Hollow or soft wood that buckles under pressure
- Mud tubes running along foundations or exterior walls
- Bubbling paint or drooping drywall caused by moisture-damaged wood beneath the surface
Even one of these indicators may point to elevated termite activity, and homeowners should schedule a termite inspection immediately.
Why Annual Inspections Matter
Termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage every year, and most homeowners insurance policies do not cover the repairs. Annual termite inspection appointments offer two major benefits:
- Early detection before structural damage occurs
- Lower long-term treatment costs through preventive action
Regular inspections allow specialists to identify vulnerable areas, spot new colonies early, and apply targeted termite control solutions designed for San Diego’s climate.
How AgPest Protects Your Home Against Termite Activity
AgPest provides year-round protection against rising 2026 termite activity with services tailored to our region’s unique pest pressures.
Our termite control programs include:
- Comprehensive termite inspections for both drywood and subterranean species
- Localized and full-structure treatments using industry-leading methods
- Preventive protection plans built for long-term defense
- Real estate WDO/WDI reports for property transactions
Our technicians understand the climate trends driving this year’s termite surge and apply solutions that deliver long-lasting protection.
Stay Protected in 2026
With one of the most active termite seasons approaching, proactive steps now can save thousands in repairs later.
Don’t wait for swarmers to appear — schedule your termite inspection with AgPest today.
