Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum protection. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Professionals performing termite inspections will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll inspect 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 pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on humid spots, 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
After verifying an infestation, an inspector will recommend a custom treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and efficiently. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite issue, the inspector may recommend a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector looks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Because of this, many exterminators provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. With this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves swapping out 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 inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some pest professionals take it a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when selecting 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: How long a company has been in business often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience usually handle termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the agreements in black and white 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and talk to people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.