Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can assist you in making an informed decision that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this might be more helpful than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
When conducting inspections for termites, trained professionals 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
Termite specialists typically combine a comprehensive outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors focus on potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. They usually look at 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 discovered in your house, the inspector will usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to eliminate the termites efficiently. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents 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 gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite problem, the pest control company might propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could draw termites. The inspector may advise landscaping changes or structural modifications to enhance drainage and reduce potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies 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 return within a specified time frame 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
Make sure to consider the following factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can reflect its trustworthiness and experience. More years in the field typically leads to more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Find a company that offers guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. 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: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and ask people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.