Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an informed choice that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a better option than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that come into contact with the earth and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could draw 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
When evaluating for termites, specialists typically pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on damp spots, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. 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
If termites are detected in your house, the inspection 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. 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. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite problem, the pest professional might recommend a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will search for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. The inspection company may recommend landscape improvements or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and increase drainage. Addressing these issues decreases the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to stay effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, the technician checks for signs of new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as needed. This cuts down on the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a given time period following the original service. Some pest control companies even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its trustworthiness and experience. More years in the field usually leads to more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that offer guarantees or warranties including reservice and repair. Ask for these contracts 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. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and family can provide insight into the customer experience. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.