Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an informed choice that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this could be a preferable alternative to only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
When conducting inspections for termites, technicians look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture 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
Pest control specialists usually provide both outdoor and indoor inspections. Inside, they focus on areas that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to potential termite entry points. They might check 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 identified in your house, the inspection company will suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, 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 saturate the soil surrounding homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, sealing it off, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite problem, the inspector might propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections look at current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that call for landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and frequently comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often offer 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 pest control companies even offer repair warranties. These cover costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three providers. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repairs. 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. 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 quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.