Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many companies offer annual inspections paired with preventive solutions for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll inspect structures touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could draw 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
Termite specialists usually pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on damp spots, possible entry points, and places with wood or cellulose materials. They may 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 infestation is identified in your house, the inspector will suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, 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 saturate the soil to create 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 get rid of your termite infestation, the inspector may propose a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will search for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspection company may recommend landscaping modifications or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and enhance drainage. Fixing these issues decreases the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control professionals go a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can indicate its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can usually handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with guarantees or warranties that include reservice or repair. Get the contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: In Idaho, pesticide applicators must hold a professional applicator's license from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture. Always verify that your provider is properly insured. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting input from friends and family can provide insight into how customers feel about the company. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.