Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum security. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that 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, professionals typically pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection focuses on humid spots, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They may examine 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 pest control professional will propose a personalized treatment schedule 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 cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite problem, the pest control company might recommend a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector checks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspection company may advise landscape improvements or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and enhance drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. They'll also replace baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty will pay for extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some pest control providers even offer repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that they may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its dependability and skill. Providers with more years of experience can typically resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with guarantees or warranties that include reservice or repairs. 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. Any technician that 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, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from family and friends can offer insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.