Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make a smart decision that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, 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 companies typically offer both indoor and outdoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on locations that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to potential termite entry points. They might examine 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 customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite issue, the inspection company might advise a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could draw termites. Your inspector may suggest structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lower the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. They'll also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies provide a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a given time period after service. Some exterminators provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its dependability and skill. Companies with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice and repair. Request 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: How satisfied customers are on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as word-of-mouth, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Providers with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.