Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company provides services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive treatments for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
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 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 specialists often pair an outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors concentrate on areas with wood or cellulose, potential termite entry points, and damp areas. They typically 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
After finding an infestation, an inspector will propose a tailored treatment schedule to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to form a barrier around your home. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another possible option is fumigation, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite problem, the pest professional might suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could attract termites. Your inspector may suggest structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lessen the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a given period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty will pay for extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some companies go 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
Be sure to consider the following factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repair. Get these agreements 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting advice from friends and neighbors can provide insight into how customers feel about the company. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.