Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an informed choice that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer yearly assessments plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this might be a better solution than only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
While performing checks for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything meeting the earth, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could draw in 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 companies generally offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on locations that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as possible termite entry points. 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 inspection company will suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to form a barrier around your house. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Another possible option is fumigation, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the inspector may propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive 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. Your inspector may recommend structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will lower the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often offer 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 period of time after service. Some pest professionals go a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some might need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can tell you about its dependability and skill. Providers with more pest management experience can often handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who include warranties or guarantees including reservice and repair. Request these policies in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Rhode Island requires pesticide applicators to be licensed by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. In addition to verifying licensure, you should also make sure your provider has appropriate insurance. Anyone who uses 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 ask people you trust to gauge customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.