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 provide yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will meticulously check over your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could attract 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 specialists typically pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they focus on wet areas, potential entry points, and places with wood or cellulose. They might examine 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 an effective treatment plan to remove the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To deal with your existing termite issue, the company may recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess for termite-friendly areas and assess current activity. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might attract termites to your home. Your inspector may suggest structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lower the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide 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. The service also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. This diminishes the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of extra visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a given time period following the original service. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and provide repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for 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: Obtain quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can show its knowledge and expertise. Providers with more industry experience can usually handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the contracts in black and white for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in North Carolina must be licensed by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Your provider will likely have either a commercial ground applicator or a public ground operator license. Also, confirm that the company is properly insured. Anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from friends and neighbors can offer insight into the customer experience. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.