Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an educated decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum coverage. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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 companies typically combine an outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. They often look at 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 discovered in your house, the pest control company will usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to eliminate the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, tenting it, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite situation, the inspection company might propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector searches for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspection company might suggest landscape improvements or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and improve drainage. Addressing these issues lowers the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer continuing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits diminish the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control professionals go a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with warranties or guarantees that cover 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 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, check online reviews, and talk to friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.