Yes, it’s safe to sleep in a house with termites. They don’t bite or spread disease and they aren’t likely to crawl on you or invade your personal space. However, termites can cause serious structural damage over time, which may compromise your home’s safety if left untreated. If you suspect an infestation, it’s best to schedule a professional inspection and treatment to prevent long-term risks to your property (not to mention your peace of mind).

There’s little scientific evidence to suggest that homemade remedies to ward off wildlife are effective. But, often, when using them alongside other management techniques, it won’t do any harm to try. Suggestions include using urine-soaked kitty litter or sweat-soaked clothing items. Try applying them around your fence perimeters. Always read the instructions carefully for any commercially-bought repellents and opt for EPA-approved products. Multiple applications, especially after rain, are often necessary.

Bed bugs typically live between 10 months to one year, but they lay enough eggs that an infestation can continue to multiply and worsen without professional intervention. These pests can survive up to one year without eating, so you can’t expect a bed bug infestation to resolve without proper treatment.

Termites are most active and cause the most damage in the spring and summer, when warm temperatures and increased moisture accelerate their activity. This is also when swarming typically occurs, allowing colonies to expand. However, termites remain active year-round, especially in warmer climates or heated homes. An established colony can continue to damage wood 365 days a year, even during cold weather.