Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an educated decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum coverage. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will look 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 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
Pest control specialists usually provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they concentrate 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 pest control company will usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to eliminate the termites successfully. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, tenting it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite problem, the professional may recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your home. The inspection company may advise landscaping or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and enhance drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits diminish the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies 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 time frame after service. Some pest control companies even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its reliability and expertise. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that encompass 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. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.