Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make a smart decision that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this may be a better option than only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
When conducting inspections for termites, technicians look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on anything touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could draw in 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 pair an outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they look at damp spots, potential entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 an infestation is found, your inspector will suggest a personalized treatment plan to eradicate the termites effectively and safely. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments such as 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 you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite situation, the pest control company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector checks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. Your inspector may advise structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to increase drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will lower the risk of another infestation.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. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a given time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A company's history often shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that offer warranties or guarantees including reservice and repairs. Request these 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. 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, read online reviews, and ask people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.