What Are Subterranean Termites?
Subterranean termites are the most destructive and most common termite species in Kenya. Unlike drywood termites, they live in the soil and require contact with the ground to survive. They build elaborate underground colonies that can house millions of workers.
How a Subterranean Termite Colony Works
A colony has three main castes: the queen (lays thousands of eggs daily), workers (cause all the damage), and soldiers (defend the colony). Workers travel from underground nests to above-ground food sources — your home's wooden structures — through mud tubes.
How Fast Do They Damage a Home?
A mature subterranean termite colony can consume up to 1 kg of wood per day. Most homeowners don't notice damage for 3–5 years — by which point significant structural damage has already occurred.
Treatment Options for Subterranean Termites
Liquid Soil Treatment
The most common and cost-effective method. A termiticide is injected into the soil around and under the foundation, creating a chemical barrier that kills termites on contact.
Termite Baiting Systems
Bait stations are installed around the perimeter. Workers carry bait back to the colony, spreading the active ingredient and eventually eliminating the entire colony.
Get Professional Help
Subterranean termite control in Kenya requires professional-grade tools and termiticides that are not available over the counter. Contact us for a free inspection, or read our full termite control services page for more on treatment methods and costs.