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 protection. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
As they go through their inspections for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could draw in 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 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 often 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 propose a customized treatment schedule 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 treatments are more common and 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, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite problem, the inspector may propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things that could attract termites. The inspector may propose landscaping improvements or structural modifications to enhance drainage and minimize potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans lower the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty will pay for extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage following 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: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can reflect its trustworthiness and experience. More time in the field typically leads to more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those contracts 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: How satisfied customers are on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as word-of-mouth, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Companies with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.