Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies provide yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum coverage. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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 usually pair an outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on damp spots, potential entry points, and places with wood or cellulose. 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 verifying an infestation, a pest control professional will recommend a custom treatment plan to remove the termites safely and efficiently. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are liquid termiticides and termite baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil to create a protective barrier around your home, while termite baits contain cellulose material laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, tenting it, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite infestation, the company may suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector looks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could bring in termites. Your inspector may advise structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to increase drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will decrease the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to maintain their effectiveness. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service cuts down on the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of more appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some pest professionals take it 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
Make sure to consider the following key factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can tell you about its knowledge and expertise. Companies with more industry experience can usually handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repair. Get these contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: A professional pesticide applicator in Colorado should hold either a commercial or limited commercial/public applicator licenses from the Colorado Department of Agriculture. Always ensure that your provider is properly insured. 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, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and neighbors can provide insight into the customer experience. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.