Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer annual inspections paired with preventive solutions for continuous coverage, and this may be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
While performing checks for termites, technicians 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
Termite specialists often pair a complete outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors look at potential termite entry points, areas with wood or cellulose, 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
If termites are detected in your house, the inspection company will suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are liquid termiticides and termite baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil to create a protective barrier around your home, while termite baits contain cellulose material laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another chemical option is fumigation, which involves vacating your home, tenting it, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite problem, the inspector may propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. Your inspector may suggest structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lessen the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Because of this, many exterminators provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. The technician will also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers support 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 control professionals take it a step further and offer repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some may need to complete 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 usually translates to more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with guarantees or warranties that cover reservice or repairs. Get the policies 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: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting advice from family and friends can provide insight into how customers feel about the company. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.