Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make a smart decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a better option than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll check over structures touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could 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 usually offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on areas that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible termite entry points. 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 inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, the company will suggest a tailored treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, 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, sealing it off, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your current termite issue, the inspector might recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections look at current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could attract termites. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. The technician will also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans lower the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty will pay for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control providers even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners should 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: The length of time a company has been in business usually shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more years of experience usually handle termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with guarantees or warranties that include reservice or repairs. 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting input from family and friends can provide insight into how customers feel about the company. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.