Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an educated selection that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your needs, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground 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
When evaluating for termites, companies generally pair the exterior inspection with a thorough interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on wet spots, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They may check 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 company will suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To deal with your existing termite infestation, the professional may suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. The inspector may advise landscaping changes or structural changes to enhance drainage and minimize potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. One component of this service involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies offer a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a given time period after service. Some companies go a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Providers with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the agreements 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and neighbors can provide insight into the customer experience. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.