Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite inspection companies offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum coverage. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors checking for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, 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
Exterminators often pair an outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. They often 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
After verifying an infestation, an inspection service will propose a custom treatment schedule to remove the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are liquid termiticides and termite baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil to create a protective barrier around your home, while termite baits contain cellulose material laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite situation, the inspection company might suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers offer a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of extra visits or work needed to tackle the termite infestation if they return within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control companies even offer repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Providers with more years of experience usually handle termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the policies in black and white for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Texas requires pesticide applicators to be licensed by the Department of Agriculture. Always confirm that your provider has proper licensing and insurance. Any technician 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, check online reviews, and talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.