Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make a smart decision that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this may be a better option than only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will meticulously check over your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground 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
Pest control specialists generally offer both indoor and outdoor inspections. Indoors, they concentrate on locations that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible termite entry points. They might 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 an infestation is found, your pest control professional will suggest a customized treatment schedule to eradicate the termites effectively and safely. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil to create a barrier around your home. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Another possible option is fumigation, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your current termite problem, the inspector might propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector searches for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspection company might suggest landscaping or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and enhance drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable exterminators offer ongoing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies offer a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control providers even offer repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three providers. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its reliability and expertise. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repair. Request these policies in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Your pest control professional should hold a pesticide applicator certification from the Nevada Department of Agriculture. Also 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: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews from customers, and ask family and friends for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.