Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum security. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll inspect structures in contact with 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
When evaluating for termites, professionals often pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on damp areas, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. 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 termites are detected in your house, the inspection company will suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are liquid termiticides and termite baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil to create a protective barrier around your home, while termite baits contain cellulose material laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another chemical option is fumigation, which involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the pest professional might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things that could attract termites. The inspector may advise landscaping modifications or structural modifications to enhance drainage and reduce potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will reduce your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and frequently comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers include a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a given time period after service. Some exterminators go a step further and offer repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three providers. 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 trustworthiness and knowledge. Providers with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that include guarantees or warranties including reservice and repair. Ask for these contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Oklahoma requires pesticide applicators to have a certified applicator or service technician license from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry. Always verify that your provider is properly insured, as well. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online customer reviews, and ask friends and family for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.