Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies provide yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum security. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will meticulously check over 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
Exterminators usually offer both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they concentrate on places that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible termite entry points. They may check the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
After confirming an infestation, an inspection service will create a strategic treatment plan to remove the termites safely and efficiently. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Another chemical option is fumigation, which involves vacating your home, tenting it, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite situation, the inspection company might suggest a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector checks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could draw termites. The inspection company may recommend landscaping modifications or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and increase drainage. Taking care of these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable exterminators offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans lower the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection providers often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and provide repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Companies with more industry experience can usually handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer warranties or guarantees including reservice and repair. Ask for these agreements in writing 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. 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, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and neighbors can provide insight into the customer experience. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.