Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an informed choice that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly inspections plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a better option than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll examine structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could lure 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
When evaluating for termites, specialists often pair the exterior inspection with a detailed interior inspection. This inspection focuses on wet areas, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, they'll suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to create a barrier around your house. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite situation, the inspection company might suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector searches for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. Your inspector may recommend structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will lessen the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans lower the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers 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 companies go a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can tell you about its knowledge and expertise. Providers with more pest management experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. Request those agreements 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. Anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online reviews from customers, and talk to friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.