Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can assist you in making an informed decision that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer annual termite inspections with preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this may be more helpful than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll check over structures touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp areas that 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
Pest control specialists typically provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on locations that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as potential termite entry points. They may 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 termites are detected in your home, your inspector will suggest a strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods 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 flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite infestation, the inspector might recommend a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could draw termites. The inspector may recommend landscaping modifications or structural alterations to improve drainage and minimize potential entry points. Fixing these issues will reduce your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and frequently 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 providers even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three providers. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A company's history often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with warranties or guarantees that encompass reservice or repairs. 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 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, check online reviews, and talk to family and friends for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.