Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum security. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could draw in 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 typically pair an outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on damp spots, potential entry points, 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
After finding an infestation, an inspector will propose a tailored treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and efficiently. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods 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. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite problem, the pest control company might propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector looks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspection company might suggest landscaping modifications or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and improve drainage. Fixing these issues lowers the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. With this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some pest professionals go a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can tell you about its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a company that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. Request those policies 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: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews from customers, and talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.