Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an informed decision that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies provide annual termite inspections with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this might be more valuable than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on anything meeting the earth, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture 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 companies usually pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on wet spots, potential entry points, and locations with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest an effective 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. 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, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite infestation, the inspector may advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector checks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could attract termites. Your inspector may advise structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lower the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspectors include a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a given time period after service. Some pest professionals take it a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of key considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that they may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its knowledge and expertise. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the contracts in black and white 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 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, perusing online reviews, and getting advice from family and friends can offer insight into how customers feel about the company. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.