Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can assist you in making an informed decision that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer annual termite inspections with preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this may be more helpful 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 come into contact with the ground, 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 inspectors typically pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they focus on wet spots, potential entry points, and locations with wood or cellulose materials. 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 inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to remove the termites successfully. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as 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. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite infestation, the professional may suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector looks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could attract termites. The inspector may advise landscaping modifications or structural modifications to enhance drainage and lessen potential entry points. Fixing these issues will lower your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. The technician will also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans lower the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers provide a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a specified time frame 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 happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repair. Get these policies 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and talk to people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.