Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an educated selection that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground 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
Pest control companies often pair a complete outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at damp areas, areas with wood or cellulose, and potential termite entry points. They often 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 termites are detected in your house, the inspection company will 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 common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite problem, the inspector might recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections look at current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could draw termites. The inspection company may recommend landscaping or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and improve drainage. Fixing these issues decreases the risk of future pest problems.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. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. The technician will also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain period of time after service. Some pest professionals go a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may insist on inspecting the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a company that offers guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. 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. Any technician that 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, read online reviews, and talk to friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.