Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can assist you in making an educated selection that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer annual termite assessments with preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this may be more helpful than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
As they go through their inspections for termites, technicians look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture 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
Exterminators typically combine an outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors concentrate on potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. They often look at 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, the company 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 chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to form a barrier around your house. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite problem, the inspector might recommend a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things that could draw termites. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. With this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service cuts down on the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control companies provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers repairs for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Companies with more years of experience usually handle termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the 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 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 companies you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.