Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an educated selection that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will meticulously check over your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could lure 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
When evaluating for termites, specialists often pair the exterior inspection with a thorough interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on wet spots, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might inspect the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
After verifying an infestation, an inspection service will create a strategic treatment schedule to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite infestation, the pest professional might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector looks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could draw termites. The inspection company might suggest landscape improvements or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and enhance drainage. Addressing these issues decreases the chance 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. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans lower the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of extra visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest professionals take it a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some may need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a company that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. Request those agreements 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, look at online reviews, and talk to people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.