Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an informed choice that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this may be a better option than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, 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 inspectors usually pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they focus on wet spots, possible 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 inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, they'll suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological 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 requires vacating your home, sealing it off, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To deal with your existing termite issue, the professional may advise a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. Your inspector may suggest structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will decrease the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require 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 signs of new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This reduces the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some pest control professionals go a step further and provide repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of important considerations for selecting 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 history often shows its reliability and expertise. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. Request those 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. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online customer reviews, and talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.