Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum protection. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will meticulously check over 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
Exterminators typically combine an outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at areas with wood or cellulose, potential termite entry points, and damp areas. They usually look at 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 pest control professional will suggest a customized treatment plan to eradicate the termites effectively and safely. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil surrounding homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, sealing it off, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite infestation, the company may suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and assess current activity. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might attract termites to your home. The inspection company might suggest landscape improvements or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and improve drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves switching out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty will pay for additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some pest professionals go a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following key factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the policies in print 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, read online reviews, and ask friends and family for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.