Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make a smart decision that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
Professionals performing termite inspections will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll inspect structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas 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
Exterminators often pair an outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors concentrate on areas with wood or cellulose, potential termite entry points, and damp areas. They usually 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 suggest a personalized treatment schedule to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite problem, the inspection company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will search for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. The inspector may recommend landscaping modifications or structural alterations to increase drainage and reduce potential entry points. Fixing these issues will decrease your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement 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. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers repairs for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three providers. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. More time in the field typically translates to more experience dealing with termite problems.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with guarantees or warranties that encompass reservice or repairs. Get the 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. 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 online platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.