Quick answer: Pre-construction termite proofing is a chemical barrier applied to the soil at several stages: foundation trenches, backfill, plinth filling before floor concrete, and the outer perimeter. It costs far less than treating an infested house later. In 2026, Lahore providers typically quote pre-construction treatment at about PKR 25 to 120 per sq ft, depending on the chemical, number of stages and warranty. Ask for a written warranty, commonly 5 to 10 years.
Why Termite Proofing Matters in Pakistan
- Subterranean termites are common in Punjab's soil, including Lahore.
- They enter through tiny cracks in floors and walls and attack doors, frames, wardrobes and kitchens.
- Damage is often hidden until it is serious and expensive.
- Treating soil under a finished house is harder and less effective than treating it during construction.
Treatment Stages
| Stage | When | What is treated |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Foundation trenches | After excavation, before PCC | Bottom and sides of trenches |
| 2. Backfill | As foundation backfill is placed | Soil around foundation walls, layer by layer |
| 3. Plinth and under-floor filling | After filling, before floor base concrete | Entire surface under ground-floor slabs |
| 4. Service penetrations | Before floor concrete | Around plumbing and electrical entry points |
| 5. External perimeter | After construction, before landscaping | A treated strip along external walls |
Each stage must be done at the right time. Missing stage 3 is the most common gap, because once the floor is cast, the soil underneath can only be reached by drilling.
Chemicals and Safety
- Use termiticides registered for soil treatment in Pakistan, applied at the manufacturer's dilution.
- Avoid unknown chemicals sold without labels or dilution instructions.
- Applicators should use protective equipment and keep children and animals away until the soil is covered.
- Never apply near water tanks or wells without proper precautions.
Termite Proofing Costs in Lahore (2026)
| Treatment | Typical quoted range |
|---|---|
| Pre-construction soil treatment | about PKR 25 - 120 per sq ft, depending on chemical, stages and warranty |
| Existing house, post-construction | often a lump sum, from about PKR 15,000 for small houses to well over PKR 50,000 for larger homes |
Ranges are based on published 2026 quotes from Lahore providers. Compare what is included: stages, chemical, quantity per sq ft and warranty. For context on your total budget, see our construction cost guide.
What to Ask Your Contractor
- Which product will be used, and at what dilution?
- Which stages are included?
- How many litres of solution per sq ft or running ft?
- What warranty is given, and what does it cover?
- Will they record the date and area of each treatment?
In the Planet Builders A+ and A++ specifications, termite proofing carries 5-year and 10-year warranties respectively.
Common Termite Proofing Mistakes
- Treating only the foundation and skipping under-floor filling
- Disturbing treated soil after application without re-treating
- Leaving wood scraps, shuttering and roots buried in fill
- Diluting chemicals too much to save money
- No records, which makes warranty claims difficult
Other Ways to Reduce Termite Risk
- Remove all wood and organic debris from the site before filling.
- Fix plumbing leaks quickly; moisture attracts termites.
- Use treated or termite-resistant wood for frames and cabinets.
- Keep soil and mulch away from external wall bases.
Termite treatment is part of the foundation stage in our grey structure checklist. Planet Builders schedules each treatment stage on site as part of grey structure construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should termite proofing be done?
During construction, starting with foundation trenches and continuing through backfill and under-floor filling before floor concrete.
How much does pre-construction termite proofing cost in Lahore?
Published 2026 quotes typically range from about PKR 25 to 120 per sq ft, depending on chemical, stages and warranty.
How long does termite proofing last?
Many providers offer 5 to 10 year warranties, depending on the chemical and treatment method.
Can termites come through concrete floors?
Termites cannot eat concrete, but they enter through cracks, joints and pipe openings. That is why soil under the floor must be treated.
Building a new home? Contact Planet Builders & Interiors to include termite protection in your contract.