Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can assist you in making an educated selection that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies provide annual termite assessments with preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this might be more valuable than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors conducting examinations will be on the lookout 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 typically provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they focus on locations that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as potential termite entry points. They may check 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 inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites successfully. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil surrounding homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, sealing it off, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite problem, the company may recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector checks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could attract termites. The inspection company may advise landscaping modifications or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and enhance drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer ongoing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, the technician checks for evidence of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves switching out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. This cuts down on the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of extra visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some exterminators take it a step further and provide repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can tell you about its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the policies 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. Any technician that 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 provide insight into the customer experience. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.