Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an educated selection that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies provide annual termite assessments with preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this may be more valuable than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could draw 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 specialists often pair an outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors focus on areas with wood or cellulose, damp areas, and potential termite entry points. They often look at the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If termites are detected in your home, your pest control professional will propose a personalized treatment schedule to eliminate the termites effectively and safely. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to create a barrier around your home. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite issue, the company may advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. Your inspector may recommend structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lessen the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service cuts down on the chance of major damage and commonly comes 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 come back within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following key factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. More time in the field usually results in more experience dealing with termite problems.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those 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. Anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.