Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an informed decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this may be more valuable than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will thoroughly examine 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
Exterminators typically combine a complete outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors concentrate on potential termite entry points, areas with wood or cellulose, and damp areas. They typically 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 termites are detected in your house, the inspector will suggest a tailored treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite situation, the inspection company might recommend a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections look at current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could attract termites. Your inspector may recommend structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to improve 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 regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to stay effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty will pay for any extra work required to handle the termite problem if they come back within a certain period after service. Some companies go a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some may insist on completing an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can indicate its knowledge and expertise. Providers with more pest management experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with guarantees or warranties that include reservice or repairs. Get the contracts in print 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Satisfaction ratings from customers 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 top-notch service overall.