Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an informed choice that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll check over structures meeting the soil, 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 companies generally pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they look at wet spots, possible entryways, and areas with wood or cellulose. 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 inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, the provider will 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 insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your current termite problem, the inspector might recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections evaluate for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. Your inspector may recommend structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will lower the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer continuing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. One component of this service involves swapping 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 support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of more appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can tell you about its dependability and skill. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those 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 uses 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 online platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide top-notch service overall.