Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could draw 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, professionals typically pair the exterior inspection with a thorough interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on damp spots, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 an infestation is found, your inspector will suggest a personalized treatment schedule to eliminate the termites effectively and safely. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. 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 resolve your current termite infestation, the pest professional might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. Your inspector may advise structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lower the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, the technician checks for evidence of new or increased termite activity. A professional will also switch out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This diminishes the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may insist on inspecting the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its dependability and skill. Providers with more years of experience usually handle termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer guarantees or warranties including reservice and repair. Get these contracts in writing 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and neighbors can provide insight into customer service. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.