Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum coverage. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
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
When evaluating for termites, professionals generally pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on wet spots, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might examine 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 home, your inspector will suggest a strategic treatment plan to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals 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 liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your current termite issue, the inspector might propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. Your inspector may advise structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lessen the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. One component of this service involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies offer a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a specified time frame after service. Some pest professionals take it a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its dependability and skill. Providers with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the contracts 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. Anyone who 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. Providers with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.