Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an informed choice that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive care for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this could be a preferable alternative to only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
Technicians inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that meet the earth, 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 specialists generally pair an outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on wet spots, potential entry points, and places with wood or cellulose materials. They might 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 suggest a strategic treatment plan to get rid of the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite issue, the pest professional might advise a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. The inspection company may recommend landscape improvements or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. With this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and often comes 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 return within a certain 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 hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to inspect your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a company that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those policies in print 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: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online reviews from customers, and ask friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.