Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will carefully inspect 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 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
Termite specialists typically combine an outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors focus on 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
If an infestation is discovered in your house, the inspector will usually suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites efficiently. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite infestation, the professional may suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector looks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could attract termites. The inspector may advise landscaping improvements or structural alterations to increase drainage and reduce potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will reduce your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and often comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection providers often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain time frame after service. Some pest professionals take it a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business usually shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the policies in print 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: How satisfied customers are on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide excellent service overall.