Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make a smart decision that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a better option than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will carefully inspect 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 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
Pest control companies typically combine a comprehensive outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors focus on 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
If an infestation is discovered in your house, the inspector will usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to remove the termites successfully. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include baits and liquid termiticides. Baits consist of an insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts and kills termites, while liquid termiticides soak into the soil to form a protective barrier around your home. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, sealing it off, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite infestation, the professional may recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections assess for termite-friendly areas and assess current activity. Inspectors look for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. The inspector may propose landscaping modifications or structural alterations to improve drainage and lessen potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies offer a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a given time period after service. Some exterminators go a step further and offer repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may need to assess your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the policies 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 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, reading online reviews, and getting advice from friends and family can provide insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.