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 protection. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will carefully inspect 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
Exterminators generally offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they concentrate on locations that are damp or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to potential termite entry points. 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 inspector will usually suggest an effective treatment plan to get rid of the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite issue, the company may suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector searches for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspection company may advise landscape improvements or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and increase drainage. Taking care of these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require 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. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and frequently include 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 companies take it a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners must consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business usually shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more years of experience can typically resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that include warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repair. Get these agreements 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. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.