Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company provides services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many exterminators offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll examine structures meeting the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas 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
When evaluating for termites, specialists typically pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection focuses on damp areas, potential entry points, and anywhere 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
After verifying an infestation, an inspector will propose a strategic treatment plan to remove the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite problem, the inspection company might suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections check potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could draw termites. The inspection company may advise landscaping modifications or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and improve drainage. Addressing these issues reduces the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. With this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits diminish the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies provide a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and offer repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might insist on completing an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business usually shows its reliability and expertise. Companies with more years of experience tend to handle termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that offers guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. Request those contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in California must hold either a qualified applicator license or certificate from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. You should also always ensure that your provider carries proper insurance. 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 input from friends and family can offer insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.