Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an educated selection that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies provide annual termite inspections with preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this may be more helpful than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will meticulously check over 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 draw 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
When evaluating for termites, professionals often pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection focuses on humid spots, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They may check 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 eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to create a barrier around your home. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another possible option is fumigation, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite problem, the company may advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. The inspection company may advise landscape improvements or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and improve drainage. Taking care of these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer continuing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. A professional will also swap out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies include a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a given time period after service. Some companies go a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business usually shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. 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: How satisfied customers are on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Companies with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.