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 inspections paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might entice 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 usually pair an outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on wet areas, potential entryways, and areas with wood or cellulose. 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 inspection company will suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are 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 resolve your current termite situation, the pest control company might recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. The inspector may advise landscaping improvements or structural changes to improve drainage and minimize potential entry points. Fixing these issues will decrease your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require 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 look for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers provide a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a given time period after service. Some exterminators take it a step further and provide repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business usually shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those agreements in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in Iowa must hold an applicator license from the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship. You should also verify that any provider you hire is properly insured. Any technician that applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting advice from friends and neighbors can offer insight into how customers feel about the company. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.