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 providers offer annual termite assessments with preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this may be more helpful than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could draw 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 meticulous interior inspection. This inspection focuses on damp areas, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They may inspect the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If termites are detected in your house, the inspector will suggest a tailored treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the inspector might propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could draw termites. The inspection company might suggest landscaping or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and enhance drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to maintain their effectiveness. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for signs of new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This cuts down on the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies 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 return within a given time period after service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some may need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can tell you about its trustworthiness and knowledge. Providers with more industry experience can usually handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with warranties or guarantees that cover reservice or repairs. Get the policies in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: All professional pesticide applicators in Nebraska must be licensed by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture. Also verify that any provider you hire is properly licensed. 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, read online customer reviews, and ask family and friends for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.