Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many exterminators offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Professionals performing termite inspections will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll check over 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
Exterminators often pair a complete outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors focus on areas with wood or cellulose, damp areas, and potential termite entry points. 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 inspectors find termites in your home, they'll suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites effectively and safely. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include baits and liquid termiticides. Baits consist of an insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts and kills termites, while liquid termiticides soak into the soil to form a protective barrier around your home. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, tenting it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite situation, the inspection company might advise a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. Your inspector may recommend structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable exterminators offer continuing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain time frame after service. Some companies take it a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to assess your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can tell you about its knowledge and expertise. Companies with more industry experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. Request those 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and family can provide insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.