Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company provides services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
When conducting inspections for termites, technicians look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything meeting the earth, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture 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
Pest control specialists typically provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they focus on areas that are damp or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as potential termite entry points. They may 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 infestation is identified in your house, the inspection company will suggest a customized treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees 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 means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite situation, the pest control company might advise a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. Your inspector may suggest structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and minimize 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 annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, the technician checks for signs of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. This cuts down on the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some companies 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
Be sure to consider the following key factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three providers. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those contracts 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: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online reviews from customers, and talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.