Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive treatments for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
While performing checks for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on anything meeting the earth, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could draw in 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 typically pair an outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on humid areas, possible entry points, and locations with wood or cellulose. They might inspect the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If termites are detected in your home, your inspector will suggest a customized treatment schedule to get rid of the termites effectively and safely. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include baits and liquid termiticides. Baits consist of an insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts and kills termites, while liquid termiticides soak into the soil to form a protective barrier around your home. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, sealing it off, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite infestation, the company may advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector searches for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could attract termites. The inspection company might suggest landscape improvements or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and enhance drainage. Addressing these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This cuts down on the risk of extensive damage. These services often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest control providers even offer repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its dependability and skill. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with warranties or guarantees that cover reservice or repairs. Get the policies in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in Connecticut need a pesticide applicator certificate from the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environment. Professional applicators should hold either a supervisory or operational certificate. You should also verify that your provider is properly insured. Any technician that 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 neighbors can offer insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.