Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company provides services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could draw in 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
When evaluating for termites, professionals generally pair the exterior inspection with a detailed interior inspection. This inspection focuses on humid areas, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 an infestation is identified in your house, the pest control provider will suggest a tailored treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil surrounding homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, sealing it off, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite issue, the pest professional might propose a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector looks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could attract termites. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. A professional will also replace baits and reapply liquid termiticides as needed. This cuts down on the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a given time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might insist on completing an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company's history often shows its reliability and expertise. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that include guarantees or warranties covering reservice and repairs. Ask for 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. Anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Customer satisfaction 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.