Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum security. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors conducting examinations will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that meet the earth, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might entice 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 generally offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on locations that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as 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 an infestation is discovered in your house, the inspection company will usually suggest an effective treatment plan to remove the termites effectively. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite infestation, the professional may recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector searches for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could attract termites. The inspection company might suggest landscaping modifications or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and improve drainage. Taking care of these issues decreases the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to maintain their effectiveness. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection providers often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty will pay for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain time frame after service. Some exterminators take it a step further and provide repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may insist on inspecting the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can reflect its trustworthiness and experience. More time in the field usually results in more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repairs. Ask for these contracts 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, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and neighbors can offer insight into the customer experience. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.