Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies provide yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum security. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground 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 companies typically pair an outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on wet spots, potential entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose materials. They may inspect 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 remove the termites effectively. 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 liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite infestation, the professional may propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections check for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. The inspector may propose landscaping modifications or structural alterations to improve drainage and lessen potential entry points. Fixing these issues will reduce your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. A professional will also swap out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This reduces the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners must consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can show its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can often handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with guarantees or warranties that cover reservice or repair. 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. 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 ask people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.