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 exterminators offer annual inspections paired with preventive solutions for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors conducting examinations will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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 companies generally pair an outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on humid areas, possible entry points, and places with wood or cellulose materials. 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 inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, they'll suggest a tailored 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) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to form a barrier around your house. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite infestation, the company may recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and assess current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. Your inspector may advise structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will lessen the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and frequently comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection providers often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain period of time after service. Some exterminators go a step further and offer repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some might insist on completing an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the contracts in black and white for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pest control professionals in Kansas should have a commercial certified license from the Kansas Department of Agriculture. Also make sure any company you hire is properly insured. Any technician that applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting advice from friends and family can provide insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.