Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company provides services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many exterminators offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous coverage, and this may be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector 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
Termite specialists typically pair an outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on damp spots, possible entryways, and places with wood or cellulose. 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 an infestation is identified in your house, the inspection company will suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Nonchemical options 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 fix your current termite problem, the inspection company might recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections look at current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors look for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could attract termites. The inspection company may recommend landscape improvements or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Fixing these issues reduces the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. The technician will also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of additional appointments 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 provide repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners should consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some might need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can indicate its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the 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 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 personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Companies with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.