Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies provide yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum security. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that come into contact with the earth and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could draw 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 companies usually pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on damp spots, potential entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose. 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 inspectors find termites in your home, they'll recommend a personalized treatment plan to eliminate the termites effectively and safely. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the inspection company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections look at potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to maintain their effectiveness. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. They'll also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers include a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a given time period after service. Some exterminators take it a step further and offer repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company's history often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: The Environmental Services Section of the Arizona Department of Agriculture handles pest control licensing in the state. There are a variety of subtypes and specializations available. 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: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting advice from friends and neighbors can provide insight into customer service. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.