Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can assist you in making an informed decision that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies provide annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this may be more helpful than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors conducting examinations will look for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that meet the earth, 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
Termite companies usually provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they focus on places that are damp or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to potential termite entry points. 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 inspectors find termites in your home, they'll propose a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include baits and liquid termiticides. Baits consist of an insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts and kills termites, while liquid termiticides soak into the soil to form a protective barrier around your home. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your current termite infestation, the pest professional might suggest a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things that could draw termites. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Because of this, many exterminators provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. With this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. One component of this service involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers provide a reservice warranty with their services, which covers 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 pest professionals take it a step further and provide 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
There are a number of key considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its knowledge and expertise. Providers with more pest management experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with warranties or guarantees that include reservice or repair. Get the contracts in print 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and neighbors can offer insight into customer service. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.