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 companies offer yearly assessments plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
As they go through their inspections for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on anything touching the ground, 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 specialists typically combine a comprehensive outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at areas with wood or cellulose, potential termite entry points, and damp areas. They typically 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 strategic treatment plan to get rid of the termites effectively. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite problem, the inspection company might suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections check for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. The inspection company may recommend landscaping or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Fixing these issues lowers the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans lower the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of more appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some exterminators provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to inspect your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can often handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the policies in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: District of Columbia does not have state-level pest control licensing requirements, but be sure to check with the Washington government to learn about local regulations. Always make sure your provider is properly insured. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: How satisfied customers are on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Providers with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.