What Attracts Termites to Commercial Properties in Knoxville?

Aug 12, 2025

If you own a commercial property in Knoxville, TN, one of the most significant threats to your building is a termite infestation. If left untreated, termites can inflict hundreds of thousands of dollars in structural damage. It is essential to invest in professional termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, to safeguard your business and financial stability. Understanding some of the factors that may attract termites to your property can help you implement measures to protect it; however, these tips do not replace the need for professional termite treatment in Knoxville, TN.

Why is Prevention Important?

While termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, helps exterminate active termite colonies and protect your property against reinfestation in the future, as a business owner, it is also important for you to take your own steps to prevent termites and other pests from setting up home in your property. Let’s talk about some of the things that may attract termites to your commercial property and what you can do about them.

  • Excess Moisture - Did you know that termites rely on a damp environment to thrive? That means if your property has poor drainage, leaky pipes, or excess condensation from HVAC, then you are unwittingly creating the ideal environment for a termite colony. You will need to be particularly careful when it comes to any standing water around the foundation of your property. In addition to investing in termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, you should also make a point of repairing any leaks and dealing with areas with excess moisture in order to discourage termites from returning.
  • Wood & Cellulose Materials - Termites feed on cellulose, a glucose-based compound found in plant-based materials such as wood and paper. That means that any untreated wood around your property will entice termites looking for a reliable source of food. Not only does this include structural elements of your property, but also furniture, wooden pallets, cardboard boxes, and even wood piles. Wet or decaying wood is particularly problematic when it comes to attracting termites. It is essential to elevate firewood off the ground and keep it at least 20 feet away from your foundation. Any wood used in building work around your property should be pretreated to protect it against termites. If you have a commercial property under construction, you can also arrange for termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, to treat the wood framing before the rest of the building is completed for additional protection.
  • Overgrown Landscaping - How well-maintained is the landscaping surrounding your commercial property? Many business owners are unaware that this can play a significant role in attracting termites. Overgrown shrubs, trees, and bushes can act as pathways for termites to access your property, especially if the branches are touching or overhanging the building. Mulch and wood chips should also be kept away from the foundation of the building, as these provide both a source of food and the moisture needed for termites to breed.
  • Cracks & Structural Vulnerabilities - Termite Treatment in Knoxville, TN, will help to kill existing termites and protect your property against future infestations from new termite colonies. However, you should also take steps to seal up any entry points around the property to make it more difficult for termites to gain access to the property. Check for any cracks or gaps in your foundation and around your windows and doors, and seal them up wherever possible. You may also want to seal entry points for utility lines, as termites can squeeze into the tiniest of gaps.
  • Improper Waste Management - Leaving piles of debris, scrap wood, or leftover construction materials near your commercial building can create the perfect environment for a termite problem. These materials provide both nourishment and shelter for termite colonies, thereby increasing the likelihood of an infestation establishing itself. To help minimize this risk, it’s important to keep the area surrounding your property clear and dispose of waste materials promptly. While good housekeeping plays a role, professional termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, remains a critical step in fully protecting your property from hidden infestations.
  • Lack of Pest Control - The most significant factor that makes your commercial property more attractive to termites and other pests is the failure to invest in pest control. It is essential to collaborate with a reputable pest control company to receive professional termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, and safeguard your property.

Protecting your commercial property from termites isn’t just about reacting to an infestation—it’s about preventing one before it starts. While professional termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, is essential for eliminating colonies and ensuring long-term protection, taking proactive steps, such as reducing moisture, maintaining landscaping, and securing structural vulnerabilities, can significantly reduce your risk. By combining expert treatment with smart property maintenance, you can safeguard your investment, avoid costly repairs, and ensure your business continues to thrive without the hidden threat of termite damage lurking beneath the surface.

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Otis Termite & Pest Control is a full-service pest control company with a focus on outstanding service. We have been serving the East Tennessee area for over 56 years and our reputation is built on prompt and effective service. We’re good at what we do and we’re fast. We do the job right the first time – and that’s an actual guarantee! 

Call 865.690.1662 or visit www.otispestcontrol.net.

Testimonials

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Emily Moeck

"I unknowingly moved into a home that had a HUGE bed bug infestation..."Don't you worry, we are on top of this until they are gone, I promise!"... Jack was knowledgeable and honest in his assessment of my house/treatment methods. Thank you, Jack and Rocky and the whole Otis team! My home is home again!"

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Joshua Weaver

"Prompt responses and appointment times. Very friendly and knowledgeable. Straight forward service without any "pushing" for extras."

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Charlotte Bishop

"These guys were super helpful and kind. Jack thoroughly explained every procedure and made what could have been a horrible situation much more bearable. I definitely recommend them!"

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Tamie Ridenour

"Excellent service and staff!! They were at my house the same day I called, for New construction pre-treatment!"

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Cathy Amos

"Highly recommend! Jack and Rocky are great! You've got a business and highest recommendation! Great people to work with!"

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Location Specific Phone Numbers

  • Knoxville (serving Knox County)

    865-690-1662
  • Maryville (serving Blount County)

    865-983-8011
  • Lenoir City (serving Loudon & Monroe Counties)

    865-986-1412
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    865-482-2740
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    865-453-7540

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