Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many exterminators offer annual inspections paired with preventive treatments for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. 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 companies typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they focus on humid areas, possible entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose materials. 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 an infestation is identified in your house, the inspector will suggest a tailored treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Nonchemical options 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 baits and liquid termiticides. Baits consist of an insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts and kills termites, while liquid termiticides soak into the soil to form a protective barrier around your home. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To deal with your existing termite issue, the company may advise a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspector may advise landscaping improvements or structural changes to improve drainage and lessen potential entry points. Fixing these issues will decrease your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans lower the chance of major damage and often include 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 come back within a given time period after service. Some exterminators take it 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 a number of key considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some may insist on completing an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can reflect its dependability and skill. More years in the field typically results in more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer warranties or guarantees including reservice and repair. Get these policies 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. Anyone who applies 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 service quality. Providers with good reviews tend to provide excellent service overall.