Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an educated selection that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll examine structures touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp areas that 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
Termite inspectors generally pair an outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on wet spots, potential entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose materials. They may examine 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. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are liquid termiticides and termite baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil to create a protective barrier around your home, while termite baits contain cellulose material laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite situation, the pest control company might suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. Your inspector may advise structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will lower the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and commonly 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 pest control professionals go a step further and offer repair warranties. These guarantees pay for repairs for 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: Get quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can reflect its reliability and expertise. More years in the field typically leads to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. Request those policies in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in Illinois must have a commercial applicator's license from the Illinois Department of Agriculture. You should also verify that the company is properly insured. Any technician who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Research businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and get recommendations from family and friends to obtain insight into the customer experience with a certain company. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.