Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum security. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil 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
Termite inspectors generally pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on damp areas, possible entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose. They might 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 home, your inspector will recommend a personalized treatment plan to get rid of the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to create a barrier around your home. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite problem, the professional may recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. The inspection company may recommend landscaping modifications or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and enhance drainage. Addressing these issues lowers the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of 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 commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers include a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control providers even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some may need to complete an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its trustworthiness and experience. More time in the field usually translates to more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those policies 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. Any technician that 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, check online reviews, and ask friends and family for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.