Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make a smart decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will thoroughly examine 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
Exterminators typically combine a comprehensive outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors concentrate on potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. They usually look at 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 customized treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite issue, the pest professional might suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector searches for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspection company may advise landscape improvements or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Addressing these issues reduces the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and frequently comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of extra visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest control companies even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its reliability and expertise. More years in the field usually translates to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who include warranties or guarantees including reservice and repair. Get these 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and family can provide insight into the customer experience. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.