Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an educated selection that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies provide yearly inspections plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
Professionals performing termite inspections will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll check over structures touching the ground, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could attract 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 pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they look at humid areas, potential entry points, and locations 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 discovered in your house, the pest control company will usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to get rid of the termites effectively. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, 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 saturate the soil to form a barrier around your house. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Another possible option is fumigation, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite issue, the pest professional might suggest a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. Your inspector may suggest structural alterations, 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
Termite solutions may 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 check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. A professional will also swap out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as needed. This diminishes the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose an inspector with warranties or guarantees that include reservice or repair. Get the contracts in print 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. Anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.