Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an informed choice that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer yearly inspections plus preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this may be a better option than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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
Termite specialists generally pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on damp spots, possible entry points, and locations with wood or cellulose. They may examine the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If an infestation is discovered in your house, the pest control company will usually suggest an effective treatment plan to eliminate the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist, too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents 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 form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite issue, the pest professional might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors look for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could draw termites. The inspection company may recommend landscape improvements or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and improve drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer continuing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service cuts down on the chance of major damage and frequently comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to handle the termite problem if they come back within a certain period after service. Some pest control companies even offer repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. More years in the field usually results in more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repairs. Get these 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 uses 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, check online reviews, and ask friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.