Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum protection. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors checking for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, 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
Exterminators generally offer both indoor and outdoor inspections. Indoors, they concentrate on areas that are damp or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as possible termite entry points. 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
After confirming an infestation, an inspection service will propose a tailored treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as 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 involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite infestation, the professional may recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. The inspector may propose landscaping changes or structural modifications to improve drainage and lessen potential entry points. Fixing these issues will lower your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits diminish the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection providers often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners must consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some may need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its reliability and expertise. More years in the field usually results in more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with warranties or guarantees that cover reservice or repair. Get the policies in print 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting advice from friends and family can provide insight into customer service. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.