Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum security. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on anything touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could 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, specialists often pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on humid spots, 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
After verifying an infestation, a pest control professional will create a custom treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and effectively. 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 create a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite situation, the inspection company might recommend a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could draw termites. Your inspector may advise structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and often comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of follow-up visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some exterminators provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its reliability and expertise. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that encompass reservice or repair. Get the agreements in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: New Jersey requires pesticide applicators to be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Compliance and Enforcement. This license requires a combination of experience and a passing score on an exam. You should also verify that your provider is properly licensed. Any technician that applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and ask people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.