Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies provide yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum security. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that meet the earth, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might lure 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 often pair a complete outside check with a detailed inside check. Inside, inspectors concentrate on areas with wood or cellulose, damp areas, and potential termite entry points. They often 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 inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites efficiently. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil to create a barrier around your home. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite infestation, the inspector may suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors look for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. The inspector may propose landscaping improvements or structural alterations to increase drainage and minimize potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice and repair. Request these policies 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting input from friends and family can offer insight into the customer experience. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.