Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies provide yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum coverage. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll inspect structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas 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
When evaluating for termites, specialists typically pair the exterior inspection with a detailed interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on humid areas, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. 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
After confirming an infestation, an inspection service will create a strategic treatment schedule to eliminate the termites safely and efficiently. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite infestation, the inspector may propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things that could draw termites. The inspection company might suggest landscaping or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and increase drainage. Addressing these issues decreases the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service cuts down on the chance of major damage and frequently comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of extra visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest control providers even include repair warranties. These cover costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its reliability and expertise. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with warranties or guarantees that cover reservice or repairs. Get the agreements in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services issues both public and commercial pesticide applicator licenses for professional pest experts. To obtain a license, an individual must have a certain level of experience or pass an exam. You should also verify that the company is properly insured. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and talk to people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.