Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make a smart decision that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly inspections plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will carefully inspect 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 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 generally pair an outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on wet spots, potential entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose. 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 termites are detected in your home, your pest control professional will recommend a strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to create a barrier around your house. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Another possible option is fumigation, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite issue, the inspection company might suggest a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. The inspection company may recommend landscaping or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and improve drainage. Fixing these issues reduces the likelihood 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 yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing 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 support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest control providers even offer repair warranties. These cover costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get 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 reflect its reliability and expertise. More time in the field usually results in more experience dealing with termite problems.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that include guarantees or warranties covering reservice and repair. Ask for these contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Any professional who applies pesticides in Michigan must be licensed by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. You should also verify that your provider is properly insured. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and talk to people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.