Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum protection. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors conducting examinations will be on the lookout 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
Exterminators usually offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Inside, they concentrate on areas that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as potential termite entry points. 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 termites are detected in your house, the pest control provider will suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite infestation, the inspection company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections look at potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors look for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could attract termites. The inspection company might suggest landscape improvements or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and increase drainage. Taking care of these issues decreases the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspectors provide a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a given time period after service. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and provide repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request 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: A company’s time in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with warranties or guarantees that encompass reservice or repair. Get the contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in Massachusetts need a commercial applicator license or certification from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. You should also confirm that the company is properly insured. Anyone who 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 talk to people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.