Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can assist you in making an informed decision that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer annual termite inspections with preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this might be more valuable than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will be on the lookout 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
Exterminators typically provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Indoors, they concentrate on areas that are moist or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to possible 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 an infestation is found, your pest control professional will suggest a personalized treatment plan to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To deal with your existing termite issue, the professional may recommend a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors look for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could draw termites. The inspector may recommend landscaping changes or structural alterations to improve drainage and reduce potential entry points. Fixing these issues will lower your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, the technician checks for signs of new or increased termite activity. A professional will also switch out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services often 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 return within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some may need to complete an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. More time in the field usually results in more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the contracts 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and ask people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.