Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make a smart decision that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors conducting examinations will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that meet the earth, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might entice 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
When evaluating for termites, specialists typically pair the exterior inspection with a thorough interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on humid spots, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, they'll suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as 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 cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite issue, the inspection company might advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspector may propose landscaping changes or structural changes to improve drainage and reduce potential entry points. Addressing these issues will decrease your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many termite inspection companies 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 switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans lower the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some companies take it a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners should consider when hiring 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: The length of time a company has been in business usually shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience usually handle termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. Request those contracts 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: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and ask people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.