Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an informed choice that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
When conducting inspections for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on 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, areas with wood or cellulose, and potential termite entry points. They typically 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 infestation is identified in your house, the inspection 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 common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite situation, the inspection company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors look for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your home. Your inspector may recommend structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to increase drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will decrease the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. The technician will also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies offer a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control companies even include repair warranties. These cover costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the policies in black and white for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Mississippi pesticide applicators must hold a commercial applicator license from the Mississippi Department Agriculture & Commerce. 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: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online customer reviews, and talk to friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.