Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an informed choice that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will meticulously check over your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could lure 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 specialists often pair an outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors concentrate on potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. They typically look at the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If termites are detected in your house, the pest control provider will suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Another chemical option is fumigation, which involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite issue, the inspector might recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess for termite-friendly areas and assess current activity. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. Your inspector may suggest structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will lessen the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. One component of this service involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits diminish the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspectors include a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control professionals go a step further and provide repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three providers. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the contracts in print 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Satisfaction ratings from customers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as word-of-mouth, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide excellent service overall.