Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can assist you in making an informed decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer annual termite inspections with preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this might be more helpful than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on anything touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture 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
When evaluating for termites, companies typically pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on wet spots, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might inspect the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If inspectors find termites in your home, they'll recommend a personalized treatment plan to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like 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. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite problem, the inspector may recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could attract termites. The inspection company may recommend landscaping modifications or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and enhance drainage. Addressing these issues reduces the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, the technician checks for evidence of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. This diminishes the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control companies provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business usually shows its reliability and expertise. Companies with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the agreements in black and white 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: Satisfaction ratings from customers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online platforms, as well as word-of-mouth, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Companies with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.