Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an educated decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum coverage. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil 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 companies typically offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Inside, they concentrate on places that are damp 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
After finding an infestation, an inspection service will create a tailored treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and effectively. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your current termite infestation, the inspector might suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will search for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspector may recommend landscaping changes or structural changes to improve drainage and reduce potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, the technician checks for signs of new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty will pay for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain period of time after service. Some exterminators go a step further and offer repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business usually shows its reliability and expertise. Companies with more years of experience usually handle termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with warranties or guarantees that cover reservice or repairs. 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. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.