Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an educated selection that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this might be more valuable than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will meticulously check over your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground 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
When evaluating for termites, companies typically pair the exterior inspection with a detailed interior inspection. This inspection focuses on humid spots, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. 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 an infestation is discovered in your house, the inspection company will usually suggest an effective treatment plan to eliminate the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to create a barrier around your home. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite infestation, the pest professional might advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to maintain their effectiveness. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves switching out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. This cuts down on the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of follow-up visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest professionals go a step further and offer 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 several factors that homeowners should consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to assess your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. More years in the field typically translates to more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. Request those contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in Maryland must be licensed by the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Also verify that the company 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, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and neighbors can offer insight into customer service. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.