Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an educated decision. Many providers offer 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
Termite inspectors will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll check over structures touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could 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 specialists typically combine a comprehensive outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors focus on potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. 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 infestation is identified in your house, the pest control provider will suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, 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 cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite infestation, the pest professional might propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspection company might suggest landscaping modifications or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and enhance drainage. Fixing these issues decreases the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need 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, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and frequently comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators 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
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to 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, read online reviews, and talk to people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.