Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make a smart decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
When conducting 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
When evaluating for termites, companies typically pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on damp spots, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They may inspect 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 pest control provider will suggest a tailored treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite problem, the professional may advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspection company may advise landscape improvements or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and enhance drainage. Fixing these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for signs of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves switching out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. This diminishes the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty will pay for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some might insist on completing an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company's history often shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the contracts in black and white 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Satisfaction ratings from customers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide top-notch service overall.