Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum protection. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll examine structures in contact with the soil, 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
Pest control companies typically combine a complete outside check with a detailed inside check. Inside, inspectors focus on areas with wood or cellulose, damp areas, and potential termite entry points. They often 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
If an inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest an effective treatment plan to remove the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, tenting it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite infestation, the inspection company might propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. The inspector may propose landscaping improvements or structural modifications to improve drainage and minimize potential entry points. Addressing these issues will decrease your likelihood of a future infestation.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. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. They'll also replace baits and reapply liquid termiticides as needed. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of more appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners should consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience can typically handle termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with guarantees or warranties that cover reservice or repair. Get the agreements in print 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. Anyone who uses 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, reading online reviews, and getting advice from family and friends can offer insight into how customers feel about the company. High 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?
A termite inspection in Sandy Springs will cost you, on average, $39–$219. The exact rate depends on the company performing the inspection and your address. Many pest management companies offer free termite inspections. This allows them to inspect your situation, propose solutions, and provide a custom quote. After the inspection, you can decide on a single treatment or a regular service contract. Certain businesses provide termite inspections along with other home inspection services tailored to homebuyers and sellers. In that case, you can 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 Sandy Springs
What are some signs of a termite infestation?
Indicators of a termite infestation include the following:
How often should my home be inspected for termites?
Ideally, your home should undergo termite inspections once a year. Yearly inspections are particularly recommended if your home has a lot of trees, or you've previously dealt with 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 as soon as possible, and keep food sources away from your house. Put down rubber mulch or rocks around the base of your home instead of wood mulch, and cut back shrubs and tree branches away from your house. Repair plumbing leaks quickly, and keep your gutters clean to ensure proper drainage.
What attracts termites?
Untreated wood and moisture-rich environments draw in termites. Other paper-based materials, such as cardboard, can also be a termite food source.
What is the difference between termites and ants?
The primary difference between termites and ants is that termites chew through wood, while most ants do not, aside from the carpenter ant. Termites have straight antennae and a uniform waist, while ants have segmented antennae and a narrow waist. 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.