Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies provide yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum protection. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will meticulously check over your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that come into contact with the earth and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots 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
Pest control specialists generally offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on locations that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to potential termite entry points. 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 an infestation is discovered in your house, the inspector will usually suggest an effective treatment plan to get rid of the termites successfully. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to create a barrier around your house. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Fumigation is another option, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To deal with your existing termite infestation, the inspector may propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections evaluate current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could attract termites. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. They'll also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans lower the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some companies 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 factors that homeowners must consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its dependability and skill. Companies with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer guarantees or warranties including reservice and repairs. Ask for these contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Georgia’s Department of Agriculture sets the rules and regulations that govern termite inspections and pest control. Make sure any company you hire is licensed by the state and meets the minimum insurance requirements. Any technician that uses 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 online platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide excellent service overall.
- Georgia Department of Agriculture
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?
A termite inspection in Atlanta will cost you, on average, $38–$215. The exact rate depends on the pest control business you choose and your address. Many pest control companies provide free termite inspections. This gives them a chance to analyze your specific situation, propose solutions, and provide an individualized quote. After the inspection, you can decide whether to invest in a single treatment or an ongoing service plan. Certain businesses provide termite inspections along with other home inspection services meant for homebuyers and sellers. If so, you can expect to pay a fee for the inspection.Sources
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Frequently Asked Questions About Termite Control in Atlanta
What are the signs of a termite infestation?
Common signs of a termite infestation include visible wood damage, discarded wings, mud tubes, flying swarms, hollow-sounding wood, and frass (termite droppings).
How often should my home be inspected for termites?
Ideally, your home should be inspected for termites every year. Annual inspections are particularly recommended if your home is surrounded by trees, or you've had past issues with termite activity.
What is the best way to prevent termites?
You can best prevent termites by keeping wood off the ground, keeping termite food sources far from your home, and fixing any moisture issues right away. Use rubber mulch or rocks around your foundation instead of wood mulch, and trim bushes and tree limbs away from your house. Repair any plumbing leaks as soon as possible, and clean your gutters regularly for proper drainage.
What attracts termites?
Damp areas and unfinished lumber draw in termites in search of food. Cardboard and paper also are made of cellulose that termites eat.
What is the difference between termites and ants?
Termites chew through and consume wood, as opposed to most ants, except the carpenter ant. Termites have straight antennae and uniform waists. Ants have segmented antennae and narrow waists. Also, termites stay hidden more than ants, which you often see busily looking for food.
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