Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
As they go through their 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 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
Exterminators generally provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on locations that are damp or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as potential termite entry points. They might check 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 pest control provider will suggest a tailored treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods 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, tenting it, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite problem, the pest control company might recommend a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections evaluate current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. Your inspector may advise structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will lower the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often offer 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 control providers even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three providers. Keep in mind that they may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- 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 includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. Request those contracts in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in Indiana must pass a series of exams in order to receive a license from the Office of Indiana State Chemist. Always check that a company is insured in addition to being licensed. Anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: How satisfied customers are on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Companies with good reviews tend to provide top-notch service overall.