Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum coverage. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
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 are touching the soil, 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
Exterminators generally offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they concentrate on places that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible termite entry points. They may 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 an infestation is found, your inspector will propose a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to create 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, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite problem, the inspection company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.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. One component of this service involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers provide a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a given time period after service. Some pest professionals go a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to assess your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its reliability and expertise. More years in the field typically translates to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who include 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and family can offer insight into how customers feel about the company. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.