Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an educated selection that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a better option than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will carefully inspect 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 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
Exterminators often pair a comprehensive outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors focus on areas with wood or cellulose, potential termite entry points, and damp areas. They often 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
After finding an infestation, an inspection service will create a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites safely and efficiently. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, 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, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite infestation, the company may recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and assess current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. The inspection company might suggest landscaping modifications or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and improve drainage. Addressing these issues decreases the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for signs of new or increased termite activity. A professional will also replace baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This diminishes the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty will pay for any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some pest professionals go a step further and offer 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
There are a number of key considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some may need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can tell you about its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. Request those contracts in writing 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. Any technician that 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 customer reviews, and talk to friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.