Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
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 touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture 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
Termite specialists generally pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on humid spots, potential entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose materials. They might examine the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
After confirming an infestation, an inspector will propose a custom treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite issue, the company may recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate for termite-friendly areas and assess current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers 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 come back within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control professionals go a step further and include repair warranties. These guarantees pay for repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners should consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can show its trustworthiness and knowledge. Providers with more pest management experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a company that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. Request those contracts in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in Missouri must be licensed by the Missouri Department of Agriculture. To obtain a license, an individual must complete a training program and submit proof of financial responsibility. You should also make sure your provider is properly insured. Anyone who applies 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 advice from family and friends can provide insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.