Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum protection. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might entice 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
Pest control companies typically combine an outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors concentrate on areas with wood or cellulose, potential termite entry points, and damp areas. 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 found, your pest control professional will recommend a personalized treatment plan to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Another chemical option is fumigation, which involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite infestation, the company may recommend a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. Your inspector may recommend structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to increase drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will lessen the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer ongoing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some may insist on completing an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Providers with more years of experience can typically resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that includes guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. Request those contracts in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in South Carolina must be licensed by the South Carolina Department of Pesticide Regulation, which is affiliated with Clemson University. In the majority of cases, your provider should have a commercial certification. Also verify that a company is properly insured. Any technician that applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting input from friends and family can provide insight into how customers feel about the company. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.