Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an informed choice that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a better option than only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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 companies typically pair an outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on wet areas, potential entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose. They might examine 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 inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to remove the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including 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 means vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite infestation, the pest professional might advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspector may advise landscaping changes or structural changes to increase drainage and reduce potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will reduce your likelihood of a future 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. With this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of follow-up visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest control companies even offer repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when hiring 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: A provider's time in business can show its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can often handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the policies in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in New Mexico must hold either a commercial applicator license or operator/technician license from the New Mexico Department of Agriculture. Always make sure any company you hire is properly insured. Any technician that applies 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, read online reviews from customers, and ask family and friends for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.