Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an informed choice that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that come into contact with the earth 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 specialists typically pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on wet areas, possible entryways, and places with wood or cellulose. 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 an infestation is found, your pest control professional will suggest a strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to form a barrier around your house. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite problem, the company may propose a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector searches for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could draw termites. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that call for landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and commonly include 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 specified time frame after service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. Request those 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: Satisfaction ratings from customers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online platforms, as well as word-of-mouth, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Providers with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.