John Kunkel
Title: Owner/Operator Termite Police
Profession: Banking/Real Estate
I am the owner and operator of the Termite Police. We are a full service, family owned and operated termite control company servicing the San Francisco Bay Area. I've been in the termite industry since 1986.
EDUCATION |
HOW TO GET STARTED | The best way to get started in the termite industry would be to start on a crew at a termite company. This would involve getting your applicator's license to be qualified to apply chemicals in termite treatments. On the job training with a good company is the best way to learn the information needed to be an inspector and operator. There are many aspects to the job including treatments, construction, damage repair, and inspections. The Structural Pest Control Board of California has an excellent website with all the information one would need to get started.
MUST HAVE TRAITS | I pride myself in being honest and straight forward.
beginnings
how I got started | Prior to entering the industry I was a tile setter which ended up being my avenue into termite control. When I first started I was mainly involved in the construction aspect of termite damage repair. I then went on to gain my inspectors license, then my Operators license, and now own my own company. I've used various methods to find and treat termites over the years.

inspiration
why this job?| Every day is different than the last in this business. Most of what I do involves one on one customer service which I look forward to everyday.

love
why I love this job!| I really love the challenge of pinpointing the origin of termite infestation, devising a plan of eradication, and leaving the customer satisfied. I really enjoy knowing that I can help customers protect their homes.

work
my typical day| A typical day will usually include scheduling inspections, performing inspections, answering questions over the phone, writing termite reports, performing treatments, performing structural repair for dry rot, fungus, and termite damage ,and just generally helping customers whichever way I can. Our office is open 8am -5pm, but owning the company makes for a flexible schedule in that I can work early or late or on weekends as needed.

challenges
what they are | Performing a termite inspection can be like detective work in that sometimes you're looking for something that may not be there. It can be a challenge making sure not to miss even the smallest detail. It's a challenge being a small company in an area where there is a lot of competition. I strive to build and maintain a reputation of integrity in all aspects of my work. Although it is a challenge, I enjoy the "grass roots" type of marketing rather than expensive advertising.

upside
all about growth | The growth opportunities are many depending on how big and far you'd like to go in the field. Many people make a career of being a termite inspector, but never go on to open their own company. After opening your company, the growth is what you make of it. Some choose to stay small and family owned, others choose to expand the company much further into multiple locations, larger crews, etc. With owning the company comes the ability to set your own prices and negotiate with customers more personally. There is more responsibility with ownership; however, I feel it is much more rewarding.

More Info
my website|