Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an educated selection that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a preferable alternative to only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
As they go through their inspections for termites, trained professionals look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on anything touching the ground, 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
Exterminators often pair an outside check with a detailed inside check. Inside, inspectors look at damp areas, potential termite entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose. 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
After verifying an infestation, a pest control professional will propose a custom treatment schedule to eliminate the termites safely and efficiently. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, physical barriers, 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 form a barrier around your home. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another possible option is fumigation, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the pest professional might recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections look at potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could attract termites. The inspection company might suggest landscaping modifications or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Fixing these issues reduces the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and often comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of follow-up visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some pest control providers even offer repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to assess your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can reflect its reliability and expertise. More time in the field usually translates to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with warranties or guarantees that include reservice or repairs. Get the 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: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting advice from family and friends can provide insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.
- Georgia Department of Agriculture
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Discarded wings
- Flying swarms
- Frass (termite droppings)
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Mud tubes
- Visible wood damage
How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?
The average cost of a termite inspection in Macon–Bibb County ranges from $40 to $223. However, the cost will vary by provider and location. Many pest control providers offer no-cost termite inspections. This gives them a chance to evaluate your specific situation, suggest solutions, and provide an individualized estimate. You can then opt for either a one-time treatment or ongoing services. Some companies include termite inspections with other home inspection services meant for people purchasing or selling a home. In this case, 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 Macon–Bibb County
What are some signs of a termite infestation?
Signs of a termite infestation include the following:
How often should I have my home inspected for termites?
Ideally, your home should have a termite inspection every year. Annual inspections are especially important if your home is surrounded by trees or has a history of termite activity.
What is the best way to prevent termites?
The best way to prevent termites is to avoid wood-to-soil contact, fix moisture problems right away, and keep food sources away from your property. Put down rocks or rubber mulch around the base of your home instead of wood mulch, and trim shrubs and tree branches away from your house. Repair plumbing leaks promptly, and keep your gutters clean to ensure proper drainage.
What attracts termites?
Wet areas and untreated lumber draw in termites seeking food. Cardboard and paper also contain cellulose that termites eat.
What is the difference between ants and termites?
The primary difference between ants and termites is that termites consume through wood, while most ants do not, aside from the carpenter ant. Termites have a uniform waist and straight antennae, while ants have a narrow waist and segmented antennae. Termites tend to be more secretive than ants, which are often seen foraging for food.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.