Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an educated selection that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors checking for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that meet the earth, 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 usually provide both outdoor and indoor inspections. Inside, they concentrate on areas that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible termite entry points. They may 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 tailored treatment plan to eliminate 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 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 involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the company may advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess for termite-friendly areas and assess current activity. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might attract termites to your home. The inspection company might suggest landscape improvements or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Addressing these issues decreases the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and often comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty will pay for any extra work required to address the termite issue if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control companies provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to assess your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can indicate its knowledge and expertise. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that encompass reservice or repairs. Get the policies in print 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.