Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an educated selection that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly inspections plus preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll inspect structures meeting the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could draw 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, professionals generally pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection focuses on humid areas, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might check 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 confirm there are termites in your house, they'll suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. 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 address your current termite problem, the pest control company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections look at current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could draw termites. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. With this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers provide a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a given time period after service. Some companies take it a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its reliability and expertise. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that offer guarantees or warranties 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: Customer satisfaction on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Companies with good reviews tend to provide top-notch service overall.