Termites which are commonly known as white ants are known to cause damage to wood source such as furniture and building structures. Their sub-terrain nature enters a building discretely which may not be visibility detected and may remain hidden before surfacing. Annual inspections by pest control companies are therefore critical.

Termites have soft pale bodies that are susceptible of drying out. To prevent perishing, termites are usually found underground or in cool and damp places. Termites build mud tunnels to protect themselves while travelling from their nest to a source of food.

Termites communicate with one another through a special chemical odour known as pheromone. The release of pheromone may signal a food trail, new food sources or to alarm of any impending danger.

In most countries property insurances do not include damage property due to termite infestations nor do they have a clause where a rider may be added. This leaves most property owners at the mercy of termite's destructive force.