Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can assist you in making an informed decision that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer annual termite inspections with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this might be more helpful than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
While performing checks for termites, trained professionals 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 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 inspectors usually pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they look at wet spots, possible entry points, and places 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 find termites in your home, they'll propose a personalized treatment schedule to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to create a barrier around your house. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another possible option is fumigation, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite issue, the company may advise a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. Your inspector may advise structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will decrease the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer continuing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and often comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some companies take it a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some may need to complete an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business usually shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience can typically handle termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the agreements in print 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from family and friends can provide insight into the customer experience. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.