Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum security. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll check over structures meeting 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
Interior Inspection
Termite specialists often pair a complete outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors look at areas with wood or cellulose, damp areas, and potential termite entry points. 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
After confirming an infestation, an inspection service will propose a strategic treatment schedule to remove the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as 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 introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the company may suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections look at potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could attract termites. Your inspector may advise structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to increase drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will decrease the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to maintain their effectiveness. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for signs of new or increased termite activity. One component of this service involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies offer a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a specified time frame after service. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some may insist on completing an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company's history often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a company that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. Request those policies in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Professional pesticide applicators in Oregon must pass an exam and obtain a commercial applicator license from the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Always verify both licensing and insurance when choosing a provider. 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 friends and family can provide insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.