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 companies offer annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this may be more valuable than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will meticulously check over 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 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
Pest control specialists generally provide both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they concentrate on places that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as potential termite entry points. 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
If inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, the provider will suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite issue, the professional may suggest a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector checks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspector may recommend landscaping improvements or structural modifications to enhance drainage and reduce potential entry points. Addressing these issues will decrease your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans lower the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of more appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some companies take it a step further and provide 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
Make sure to consider the following factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to assess your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can indicate its knowledge and expertise. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that cover reservice or repairs. Get the 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting advice from family and friends can provide insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.