Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an informed choice that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll inspect 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 inspectors typically pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they look at wet areas, possible entryways, and places with wood or cellulose. They may inspect 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 inspector will suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to form a barrier around your house. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another possible option is fumigation, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite issue, the company may advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections assess for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. Your inspector may advise structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to increase drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will lower the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control providers even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for choosing 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 often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the contracts 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. 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 talk to people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.