Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can assist you in making an informed decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this might be more valuable than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll inspect structures meeting the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas 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
Exterminators typically offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on areas that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible termite entry points. They may 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 identified in your house, the inspection company will suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the inspector might recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections look at potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors look for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could draw termites. Your inspector may advise structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will lower the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain period of time after service. Some exterminators go a step further and include repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might need to complete an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company's history often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with guarantees or warranties that include reservice or repair. Get the contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pest control professionals in Minnesota should hold an applicator license from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. It's also important to confirm that your provider is properly insured. Anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting input from friends and family can provide insight into the customer experience. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.