Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can assist you in making an educated selection that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies provide annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this might be more helpful than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that come into contact with the earth and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that 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 inspectors typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they look at wet spots, possible entry points, and locations 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 home, your inspector will suggest a strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites effectively and safely. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include baits and liquid termiticides. Baits consist of an insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts and kills termites, while liquid termiticides soak into the soil to form a protective barrier around your home. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite problem, the inspection company might recommend a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. The inspector may recommend landscaping changes or structural modifications to improve drainage and minimize potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will reduce your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. With this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. One component of this service involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a given time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three companies. 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 dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the agreements in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: In New Hampshire, pesticide applicators must hold a license from the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture Markets & Food. It's also important to verify that your provider is properly insured. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and talk to people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.