Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an informed choice that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a better option than only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil 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
Termite inspectors generally pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on damp spots, possible entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose. 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 get rid of the termites efficiently. 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 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. 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 handle your existing termite infestation, the inspector may suggest a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections assess potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to maintain their effectiveness. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers include a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control companies even offer repair warranties. These cover costs to repair new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of important considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some might insist on completing an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business usually shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Find a company that offers guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. Request those 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. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and ask people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.