Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company provides services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Professionals performing termite inspections will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll check over structures in contact with 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
Termite companies generally pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they look at damp spots, possible entryways, and areas with wood or cellulose materials. 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
After finding an infestation, an inspector will propose a tailored treatment plan to eliminate the termites safely and efficiently. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are liquid termiticides and termite baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil to create a protective barrier around your home, while termite baits contain cellulose material laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, tenting it, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite issue, the inspector may suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and assess current activity. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. The technician will also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans lower the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of follow-up visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a given time period following the original service. Some pest control professionals go a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for 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: Request quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its trustworthiness and experience. More time in the field usually translates to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with guarantees or warranties that encompass reservice or repair. 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. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.