Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an informed choice that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your needs, this may be a better option than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. 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 inspectors generally pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on wet areas, possible entryways, and areas with wood or cellulose materials. They might examine the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, the company will suggest a tailored treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Alternatives to chemicals 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 saturate the soil to form a barrier around your house. 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 encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite issue, the company may advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could attract termites. The inspector may recommend landscaping modifications or structural changes to increase drainage and lessen potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of follow-up visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and offer repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some may insist on completing an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those policies in writing 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: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online reviews, and talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.