Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can assist you in making an educated selection that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies offer annual termite inspections with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this may be more helpful than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll examine structures touching the ground, 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
Exterminators often pair a complete outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at damp areas, areas with wood or cellulose, and potential termite entry points. They usually 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
If an infestation is identified in your house, the inspector will suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods 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 create a barrier around your home. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Another possible option is fumigation, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite problem, the company may advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will search for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspection company may recommend landscaping modifications or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and enhance drainage. Fixing these issues reduces the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to stay effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. This reduces the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain period of time after service. Some companies go a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Make sure to consider the following factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its dependability and skill. Companies with more years of experience can typically resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with guarantees or warranties that include reservice or repair. 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and talk to people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.