Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will meticulously check over your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots 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
Exterminators typically combine a comprehensive outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at damp areas, areas with wood or cellulose, 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 an infestation is discovered in your house, the pest control company will usually suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as 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 flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the company may suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. The inspector may recommend landscaping changes or structural changes to improve drainage and lessen potential entry points. Addressing these issues will reduce your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. They'll also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some pest control companies even offer repair warranties. These cover costs to fix new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners must consider when hiring 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: A company's history often reflects its reliability and expertise. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that include guarantees or warranties covering reservice and repairs. Ask for these 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: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and talk to people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.