Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can assist you in making an educated selection that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer annual termite assessments with preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this may be more valuable than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
When conducting inspections for termites, inspectors 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 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 an outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on humid spots, potential entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 pest control provider will suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite problem, the professional may suggest a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector checks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could attract termites. Your inspector may advise structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to increase drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will lessen the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to stay effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. During this monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers offer a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to address the termite issue if they return within a given time period after service. Some pest professionals go a step further and provide 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
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might insist on completing an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its trustworthiness and knowledge. Providers with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the policies 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 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, read online customer reviews, and ask friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.