Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make a smart decision that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll examine structures in contact with the soil, 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
Termite specialists usually pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they look at humid areas, potential entry points, and places 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
If an infestation is discovered in your house, the inspection company will usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to get rid of 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) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite issue, the inspector may recommend a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections check for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. The inspection company might suggest landscaping or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Addressing these issues decreases the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer continuing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits diminish the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its reliability and expertise. More time in the field usually results in more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Find a company that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. Request those policies in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: The state of New York requires pesticide applicators to hold either a commercial pesticide applicator or technician license from the New York Department of Environmental Conservation. You should also verify that your provider is properly insured. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting advice from friends and family can offer insight into how customers feel about the company. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.