Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that come into contact with the earth 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 specialists generally provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they concentrate on places that are damp or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible termite entry points. They may examine 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 inspector will suggest a customized treatment plan to remove the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, tenting it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite infestation, the inspector might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector checks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could attract termites. The inspector may propose landscaping improvements or structural changes to improve drainage and reduce potential entry points. Fixing these issues will reduce your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans lower the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some exterminators go a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that they may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer guarantees or warranties including reservice and repairs. Get these 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and ask people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.