Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many exterminators offer annual assessments paired with preventive treatments for continuous coverage, and this may be a preferable alternative to a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, inspectors 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 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
Exterminators generally offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Inside, they focus on locations that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible termite entry points. They may check 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 confirm there are termites in your house, they'll suggest a customized treatment plan to remove the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite problem, the professional may propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things that could draw termites. Your inspector may advise structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will decrease the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. They'll also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection providers often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more providers. 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 often reflects its reliability and expertise. Companies with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that offers guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. Request those agreements in print 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: Satisfaction ratings from customers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as word-of-mouth, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide excellent service overall.