Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many exterminators offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous coverage, and this may be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, trained professionals look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on anything meeting the earth, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could lure 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 typically combine a comprehensive outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors focus on damp areas, areas with wood or cellulose, and potential termite entry points. They typically look at 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 inspector will usually suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites successfully. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil surrounding homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the inspection company might recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections look at potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors check 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 improve drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lower the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and often comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of more appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a given time period following the original service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. More years in the field usually leads to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. Request those contracts in print 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: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and ask people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.