One Company for Termites and General Pests: Why It Matters
Most homeowners don't realize termite work and general pest control are often separate licenses — and separate companies. Here's why one provider for both is the simpler, smarter setup.
Here's something most homeowners learn the hard way: in California, termite work and general pest control are different license categories. Branch 3 covers termites and wood-destroying organisms; Branch 2 covers general pests like ants, roaches, rodents and spiders. Many companies hold only one — which is why people end up juggling two providers.
The hidden cost of two providers
Two companies means two inspections, two schedules, two invoices, and two sets of recommendations that don't talk to each other. When your termite company and your general pest company each see only half the picture, things fall through the cracks.
What a combined setup looks like
With one licensed provider holding both branches, a single inspection covers termites and general pests together, recommendations are coordinated, and one person knows your property's full history. For ongoing needs, termite monitoring can sit alongside a regular seasonal pest schedule — one plan, one point of contact.
How to check before you hire
Ask whether the company holds both CA SPCB Branch 2 and Branch 3. ExterMetro holds both (Company Registration #8828), so termites and everyday pests are handled by the same licensed owner — no second provider needed. Free quotes: (626) 409-1584.
Quick Answers
Quick Answers.
Can one company do both termites and general pest control?
Yes, if it holds both California license branches — Branch 3 for termites and Branch 2 for general pests. ExterMetro holds both (CA SPCB #8828), so one licensed owner handles termite work and everyday pests like ants, roaches and rodents.
Why do some companies only do termites or only do general pests?
Because they're separate California license categories (Branch 3 vs. Branch 2), and many companies are licensed for just one. That's why homeowners often end up with two providers — one for termites, one for everything else.
Is it cheaper to use one provider for both?
Usually simpler and often cheaper over time: one inspection instead of two, coordinated recommendations, one schedule, and one point of contact who knows your property's full history.
Can termite monitoring be combined with regular pest visits?
Yes. With a provider that holds both branches, termite monitoring can run alongside a recurring general-pest schedule as a single plan — no need to coordinate two separate companies.
About the Author
Joshua is the owner and licensed operator of ExterMetro Termite and Pest Control in Arcadia, CA. He holds California SPCB Company Registration #8828 (Branch 2 & 3), is a licensed WDO inspector, and has worked San Gabriel Valley homes and businesses for over twelve years — doing every inspection and treatment himself.
About the Author
Joshua is the owner and licensed operator of ExterMetro Termite and Pest Control in Arcadia, CA. He holds California SPCB Company Registration #8828 (Branch 2 & 3), is a licensed WDO inspector, and has worked San Gabriel Valley homes and businesses for over twelve years — doing every inspection and treatment himself.
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