Fumigation is the process of tenting a property and introducing a chemical called sulfuryl fluoride to eliminate termites, cockroaches and rodents.
Safeguarding Public Health and California’s Economy
Professional fumigation is the only proven way to eliminate drywood termites and wood-destroying beetles that cause damage to millions of California homes and buildings. It is also the only 100% effective method to eradicate bedbugs, cockroaches, and other pests from a family’s home. However, proposals to restrict or eliminate vital pest control tools would severely put vulnerable populations at risk and force higher rents. It will threaten a wide range of jobs, from real estate offices to union workers in California’s major ports. It will cost the state’s consumers an estimated $ 20 million.
WHAT
WHERE
Throughout California – especially in Southern California, where an estimated 50% of all structures contain drywood termites.
Fumigation is critical for many buildings and products: Homes, Apartments, Condos, Senior Homes, Homeless Shelters, Rehab Centers, Disadvantaged Communities, Affordable Housing, Foreign Trade, Food Trucks, Teslas
WHEN
During the escrow process, termite inspections are required for many loans; this often results in the need for fumigation as a condition for a loan.
When residents of buildings – especially low-income housing – are suffering from bed bugs, cockroaches and rodents.
When machinery, food and other products are imported or exported from California (a condition of trade).
WHY
Termites cause $300 Million in damage each year in California.
In many real estate transactions California law requires fumigations to protect consumers.
Because termite infestations are hidden behind walls, fumigation is the only treatment able to eradicate 100% of them.
FUMIGATION PROCESS
State-licensed professional pest control operators are the only ones able to fumigate.
The process currently takes 3 days, which allows for tenting, fumigating, aeration and removal of tents once air has been tested to ensure safety before certification of re-entry.
The process requires tenants and residents vacate a property; this can result in inconvenience and costs to them.
PROTECTING SOUND SCIENCE
Regulatory decisions must be based on credible science because our families’ health and safety depend on them. Science-based policies ensure effective pest control, protect us from diseases, safeguard our homes and businesses from structural damage, and maintain our communities’ economic stability.