Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer annual inspections paired with preventive treatments for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to 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 meet the earth, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might lure 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 typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on damp spots, possible entry points, and places with wood or cellulose materials. They may examine 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 identified in your house, the pest control provider will suggest a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground 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 involves vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the inspection company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector searches for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could attract termites. The inspection company may advise landscape improvements or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and improve drainage. Taking care of these issues decreases the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans lower the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties cover the cost of follow-up visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some exterminators go a step further and offer repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might insist on completing an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can reflect its dependability and skill. More time in the field typically translates to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the policies in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Tennessee requires pesticide applicators to be licensed by the Department of Agriculture. Always confirm that your provider has proper licensing and insurance. 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, reading online reviews, and getting input from family and friends can provide insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.