Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Professionals performing termite inspections will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll examine structures meeting the soil, 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
When evaluating for termites, companies generally pair the exterior inspection with a thorough interior inspection. This inspection focuses on wet spots, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They may 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 termites are detected in your house, the pest control provider will suggest a customized treatment plan to remove 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. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, tenting it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite infestation, the pest professional might recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections evaluate current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could attract termites. The inspector may advise landscaping improvements or structural modifications to enhance drainage and lessen potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to stay effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans lower the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies provide a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a specified time frame after service. Some companies go a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its reliability and expertise. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the contracts 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: Satisfaction ratings from customers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.