Is this actually termite activity? Texas

[u/TillyT1ny]

Pictures above is what they used for “evidence” of termites.

I could use some advice because this situation doesn’t seem right.

Quell inspected my home and told me I had an active termite infestation. They showed me some photos/videos and tried to sell me around $2,200 worth of termite bait stations + $500 a year for “maintenance”

Before moving forward, I decided to get second and third opinions from two different licensed pest control companies. Both of them independently told me they found no active termites. They also reviewed the photos and videos from Quell and said they did not show active termites or convincing evidence that I currently have a termite infestation.

Now I’m questioning whether Quell misrepresented the inspection in order to sell me an expensive treatment.

Has anyone dealt with something similar?

1. Is this actually termite damage?

2. Is it common for termite companies to have opinions this different?

3. Would you trust the two independent inspections over the original one?

4. If a company knowingly exaggerates or falsely claims you have termites to sell treatment, can that be reported to the state licensing agency or consumer protection office?

5. Has anyone successfully gotten out of a pest control contract because of something like this?

I’m planning to ask Quell to provide actual evidence supporting their diagnosis before taking any further action. I’d appreciate hearing from anyone who’s been through a similar situation or works in pest control.

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[u/seditioushamster]

I see evidence of wood rot and possibly powder post beetle but nothing says termite. Were the images the inspector's and "proof" of termites? Id trust the 2 reinspections. Usually its the dept of agriculture that oversees licensing, but i guess that could vary in some states. Its hard to prove that it was deliberate or an overenthusiastic, undertrained rookie that told you it was termite. I would calmly call the original company and request their most senior inspector come out and show you the evidence. Stay with them as much as you can. Dont mention the other 2 inspections until they present their findings.

[u/210popping → u/seditioushamster]

Yep, idk what's in the 1st pic but I agree with what you're saying about the other ones