Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum security. 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 the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, 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 offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Inside, they concentrate on locations that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible termite entry points. They may 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 inspectors find termites in your home, they'll recommend a customized treatment plan to eradicate the termites effectively and safely. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments such as 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 these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite issue, the inspection company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. The inspection company may advise landscaping modifications or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and increase drainage. Addressing these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of 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 diminish the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back 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 professionals go a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some might need to complete an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Providers with more pest management experience can usually handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the 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. 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 talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.