Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an educated selection that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might attract 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
Pest control specialists typically offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Inside, they focus on locations that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as potential termite entry points. They may 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 termites are detected in your home, your inspector will recommend a strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents 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 insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To deal with your existing termite issue, the professional may recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections assess potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to maintain their effectiveness. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. With this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty will pay for additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some pest control professionals go a step further and provide repair warranties. These guarantees pay for repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some may insist on completing an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Providers with more industry experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the agreements 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: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and talk to people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.