Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many exterminators offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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
When evaluating for termites, companies typically pair the exterior inspection with a thorough interior inspection. This inspection focuses on damp areas, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might check 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 pest control provider will suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to form a barrier around your home. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Fumigation is another option, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite issue, the inspector might propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections check for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. The inspection company might suggest landscaping or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and enhance drainage. Taking care of these issues lowers the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable exterminators offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. The technician will also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of extra visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a given time period following the original service. Some pest control companies even offer repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following key factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can reflect its trustworthiness and experience. More years in the field typically results in more experience dealing with termite problems.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice and repair. Get these agreements in writing 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and family can offer insight into how customers feel about the company. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.