Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many exterminators offer annual inspections paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Professionals performing termite inspections will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll inspect structures touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp areas 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
Termite inspectors typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they focus on wet spots, potential entryways, and locations 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 inspector will usually suggest a strategic 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. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to create a barrier around your home. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Fumigation is another option, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To deal with your existing termite infestation, the company may advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will search for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with 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 specificed time period following the original service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its knowledge and expertise. Providers with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the contracts in black and white 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and neighbors can offer insight into customer service. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.