Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an informed choice that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this may be a better option than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll examine structures meeting 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
Pest control companies typically combine a complete outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors focus on damp areas, areas with wood or cellulose, and potential termite entry points. They usually 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 inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, they'll suggest a tailored treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments including 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 these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite infestation, the inspector may propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections check for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. The inspection company might suggest landscape improvements or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and increase drainage. Taking care of these issues decreases the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a given period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some pest control companies provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers repairs for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three providers. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who include warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repair. Request these policies 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. Anyone who uses 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 input from family and friends can provide insight into customer service. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.