Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an educated selection that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
While performing checks for termites, technicians look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything meeting the earth, 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
Pest control companies typically combine a comprehensive outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors look at damp areas, potential termite entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose. They usually 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 an inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest an effective treatment plan to remove the termites effectively. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are 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 gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite infestation, the professional may recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector looks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves switching out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. This reduces the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspectors provide a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a specified time frame after service. Some companies take it a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its reliability and expertise. More time in the field typically translates to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Find a company that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. Request those contracts in print 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: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online reviews from customers, and talk to friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.