Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make a smart decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
While performing checks for termites, technicians look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything meeting the earth, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could draw in 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
Pest control companies typically combine an outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors focus on potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. They often look at 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 customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites effectively. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite situation, the pest control company might propose a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will search for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspector may advise landscaping improvements or structural changes to enhance drainage and lessen potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer continuing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans lower the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty will pay for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control companies provide 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 important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might insist on completing an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that encompass reservice or repairs. Get the 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. Anyone who 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 customer reviews, and ask family and friends for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.