Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many exterminators offer annual inspections paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors checking for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, 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 companies often pair a comprehensive outside check with a detailed inside check. Inside, inspectors focus on damp areas, areas with wood or cellulose, 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 an infestation is identified in your house, the pest control provider will suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite situation, the inspection company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that call for landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, the technician checks for evidence of new or increased termite activity. They'll also replace baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This diminishes the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty will pay for additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some companies go a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business usually shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Providers with more years of experience tend to handle termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the agreements in black and white 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, 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.