Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer annual assessments paired with preventive treatments for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground 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
Termite specialists often pair an outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors look at potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. 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 termites are detected in your house, the inspection company will suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are liquid termiticides and termite baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil to create a protective barrier around your home, while termite baits contain cellulose material laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, tenting it, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To deal with your existing termite infestation, the professional may propose a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector checks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspection company may advise landscaping or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and improve drainage. Fixing these issues decreases the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes 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. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. The technician will also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers provide a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control providers even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following key factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some may insist on completing an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can show its dependability and skill. Providers with more industry experience can usually handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that encompass reservice or repair. Get the policies in print 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: Customer satisfaction on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online platforms, as well as word-of-mouth, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.