Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies provide yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum coverage. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll examine structures meeting 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
Pest control specialists generally provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they focus on locations that are damp or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to potential termite entry points. 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 house, the inspector will suggest a tailored treatment plan to eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to form a barrier around your house. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another option, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite problem, the professional may propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector searches for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could draw termites. Your inspector may suggest structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to enhance drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Addressing these issues will decrease the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable exterminators offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. With this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and frequently comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some companies go a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following key factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to assess your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its reliability and expertise. Providers with more years of experience usually handle termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer warranties or guarantees 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. Anyone who applies 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 get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.