Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make a smart decision that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this may be a better option than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll examine structures touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp areas 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
When evaluating for termites, specialists often pair the exterior inspection with a thorough interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on humid areas, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 an inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest a customized treatment plan to remove the termites successfully. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, tenting it, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the professional may advise a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector searches for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could draw termites. The inspection company may recommend landscape improvements or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and increase drainage. Taking care of these issues lowers the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. With this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and often comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some pest control providers even offer repair warranties. These cover costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on inspecting the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its reliability and expertise. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer warranties or guarantees including reservice and repairs. Get these agreements 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 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 personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Companies with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.
- Georgia Department of Agriculture
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?
Plan on paying $40–$223 for a termite inspection in Columbus. The price varies based on the provider and your location. Many pest control providers offer free termite inspections. This gives them a chance to review your specific situation, propose solutions, and provide a customized estimate. You can then opt for either a one-time treatment or recurring services. Certain providers offer termite inspections with other home inspection services focused on homebuyers and sellers. In this situation, expect to pay an inspection fee.Sources
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Pest Control Project?
Get matched with a top local pro
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Termite Control in Columbus
What are some signs of a termite infestation?
Common signs of a termite infestation include hollow-sounding wood, visible wood damage, discarded wings, mud tubes, frass (termite droppings), and flying swarms.
How often should I have my home inspected for termites?
You should arrange inspections each year to check for termites. Yearly assessments are very important if your property has a lot of trees, or you've had termites before.
What is the best way to prevent termites?
The best way to prevent termites is to avoid wood-to-soil contact, repair moisture problems as soon as possible, and keep food sources away from your home. Use rubber mulch or rocks around the base of your home instead of wood mulch, and trim tree branches and shrubs away from your house. Fix plumbing leaks quickly, and keep your gutters clean to ensure proper drainage.
What attracts termites?
Unfinished lumber and wet environments attract termites. Other cellulose-based materials, such as cardboard, can also be a termite food source.
What is the difference between ants and termites?
Termites chew through and consume wood, as opposed to most ants, with the exception of the carpenter ant. Termites have straight antennae and uniform waists, while ants have segmented antennae and narrow waists. Furthermore, termites stay hidden more than ants, which you often see actively looking for food.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.