Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an informed decision that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this may be more valuable than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors checking for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might attract termites, such as the following:- Cracks in expansion joints
- Deadwood
- Firewood stacks
- Pooling water around the foundation
- Standing water on the roof
- Wood mulch close to the foundation
- Wooden deck supports
- Wooden fences
Interior Inspection
Termite inspectors typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on wet spots, possible entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose. They may inspect the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, the provider will suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil to form a barrier around your house. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the professional may recommend a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess for areas prone to termites and assess current activity. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. The inspection company may recommend landscaping modifications or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Fixing these issues reduces the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer continuing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This reduces the risk of extensive damage. These services often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some might need to complete an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can reflect its dependability and skill. More years in the field usually leads to more experience dealing with termite problems.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that offer warranties or guarantees including reservice and repair. Get these agreements in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries regulates pest control providers in the state. Pesticide applicators should have a commercial applicator permit as well as a business license. You should also ensure that your provider is properly insured. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: How satisfied customers are on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide excellent service overall.