Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an educated selection that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this could be a preferable alternative to only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll check over structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could 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 usually offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Inside, they focus on areas that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as possible termite entry points. 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 termites are detected in your home, your inspector will propose a strategic treatment plan to eliminate the termites effectively and safely. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like 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. Another chemical option is fumigation, which involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite problem, the inspector may propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers include a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a given time period after service. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and provide repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may insist on inspecting the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can show its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can usually handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Find a company that offers guarantees or warranties for reservice or repairs. Request those contracts in writing 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. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online reviews, and ask friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.