Best 5 Termite Control Companies in Wilmington, NC

Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies

Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make a smart decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies offer yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite issue once.

Exterior Inspection

Professionals performing termite inspections will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll examine structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas 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

Indicators of termites include droppings, mud tubes, and damaged wood. If an inspector suspects termites are somewhere hard to see, they might bore small holes or use special tools to check for them.

Interior Inspection

When evaluating for termites, specialists generally pair the exterior inspection with a detailed interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on wet areas, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might examine the following:

• Attics
• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Doorframes
• Exposed beams or studs
• Exterior walls
• Hardwood floors
• Under-sink cabinets
• Windowsills
• Wooden furniture

Evidence of termites include shed wings, mud tubes, and chewed wood, which typically sounds hollow when knocked on. The inspector might use a moisture meter and probe to identify termite damage and termite-friendly environments.

Treatment Recommendations

If an infestation is found, your inspector will recommend a personalized treatment plan to eliminate the termites effectively and safely. Nonchemical alternatives 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 use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Another possible option is fumigation, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite infestation, the pest professional might suggest a multipronged strategy.

Future Vulnerabilities

Complete termite inspections check for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.

Continuous Monitoring

Termite solutions may require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.

Termite Warranties

Many termite inspection providers back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators take it a step further and offer repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector

There are a number of key considerations for hiring a termite inspector.

• Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may need to inspect your home before providing an estimate.
• Experience: A company's history often shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
• Guarantees: Choose a provider with warranties or guarantees that encompass reservice or repairs. 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. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
• Reputation and reviews: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online reviews from customers, and talk to friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.

How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?

A termite inspection in Wilmington typically costs $37–$205. The exact rate depends on the inspector you hire and your location. Many pest control providers offer complimentary termite inspections. This gives them a chance to evaluate your unique situation, recommend solutions, and provide an individualized estimate. You can then opt for either a single treatment or recurring services. Some companies package termite inspections with an array of home inspection services geared toward homebuyers and sellers. If so, you can expect to pay a fee for the inspection.

Sources

• North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency