Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can assist you in making an informed decision that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this may be more helpful than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
When conducting inspections for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything meeting the earth, 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
Exterminators often pair a complete outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at areas with wood or cellulose, potential termite entry points, and damp areas. 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 home, your inspector will propose a strategic treatment plan to get rid of the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to form a barrier around your home. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Fumigation is another option, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite issue, the professional may recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections look at current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors look for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could attract termites. The inspection company might suggest landscaping or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Taking care of these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer continuing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty will pay for extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some companies take it a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners must consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some might insist on completing an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can show its knowledge and expertise. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. Request those agreements in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: In Arkansas, anyone who applies pesticides on someone else's property should have a commercial or limited commercial/public license. These licenses are handled by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. 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: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews from customers, and ask friends and family for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.