Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an educated selection that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this may be more valuable than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
As they go through their inspections for termites, trained professionals look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything meeting the earth, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could 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
Termite inspectors typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on humid spots, potential entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose. 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
After confirming an infestation, a pest control professional will recommend a custom treatment plan to remove the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite infestation, the professional may propose a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector checks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could attract termites. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers offer a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a given time period after service. Some pest control providers even offer repair warranties. These cover costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that include reservice or repair. Get the 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. 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, read online reviews, and talk to people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.