Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many companies offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous coverage, and this may be a preferable alternative to a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could 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 typically offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they concentrate on places that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to potential termite entry points. 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 inspector will suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents 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, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the professional may suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. Your inspector may advise structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will lessen the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to maintain their effectiveness. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves switching out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some companies go a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its reliability and expertise. Providers with more years of experience can typically resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with guarantees or warranties that include reservice or repair. Get the contracts in print 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online customer reviews, and talk to friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.