Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many exterminators offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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
When evaluating for termites, companies often pair the exterior inspection with a thorough interior inspection. This inspection focuses on humid spots, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 pest control professional will propose a customized treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite issue, the company may suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need 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 monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and often comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover 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 professionals go a step further and provide repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can reflect its trustworthiness and experience. More years in the field usually leads to more experience dealing with termite problems.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with guarantees or warranties that encompass reservice or repairs. Get the policies in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pennsylvania requires professional pesticide applicators to be either a commercial/public applicator or registered technician. Licensing and registration is handled by the Bureau of Plant Industry, Division of Health and Safety within the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Always make sure your provider is properly insured, as well. Any technician that applies 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 reviews, and talk to family and friends for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.