Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous coverage, and this may be a preferable alternative to a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, trained professionals look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could draw in 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
Termite companies typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on humid spots, possible entry points, and locations with wood or cellulose materials. 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 an infestation is found, your pest control professional will suggest a customized treatment schedule to eradicate 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 chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to form a barrier around your home. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another possible option is fumigation, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the company may recommend a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections assess for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. Your inspector may suggest structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lessen the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and frequently 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 return within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners should consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some may need to complete an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can show its dependability and skill. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with warranties or guarantees that cover reservice or repair. 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 uses 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, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and family can provide insight into the customer experience. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.