Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an educated selection that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly inspections plus preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite issue 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 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 specialists typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they look at humid areas, possible entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose. 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 inspectors find termites in your home, they'll propose a strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites effectively and safely. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to form a barrier around your home. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Fumigation is another option, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite issue, the inspector might propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might attract termites to your home. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that call for landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of more appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a given time period following the original service. Some companies take it a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on inspecting the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its trustworthiness and knowledge. Providers with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that offers guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. Request those policies 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and ask people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.