Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an educated selection that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer annual termite assessments with preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this may be more helpful than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that come into contact with the earth 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 companies generally offer both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they focus on locations that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as possible termite entry points. They may check 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 infestation is found, your inspector will suggest a strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees 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 deal with your existing termite issue, the inspector may propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector looks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could draw termites. Your inspector may advise structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will lessen the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable exterminators offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. With this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for 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 companies provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage 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: Request quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its trustworthiness and experience. More years in the field typically results in more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with guarantees or warranties that encompass reservice or repair. Get the agreements in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Your provider must have an applicator license from the Ohio Department of Agriculture, and should be 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, read online reviews, and ask people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.