Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum protection. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors conducting examinations will look for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might entice 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 pair an outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they look at humid areas, possible entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose materials. They may 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 house, the inspection company will suggest a tailored treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include baits and liquid termiticides. Baits consist of an insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts and kills termites, while liquid termiticides soak into the soil to form a protective barrier around your home. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, sealing it off, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite situation, the pest control company might recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections look at potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could draw termites. Your inspector may suggest structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will lower the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. With this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits reduce the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a given time period following the original service. Some pest control companies even offer repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners should consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can reflect its dependability and skill. More years in the field typically results in more experience dealing with termite problems.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the policies 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. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and talk to people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.