Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that meet both your short- and long-term requirements. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will meticulously check over your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could draw 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 a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they focus on humid areas, potential entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose. 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
If inspectors find termites in your home, they'll recommend a strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, sealing it off, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite problem, the inspection company might recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could attract termites. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that call for landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently support their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of extra visits to deal with the termites should they reappear in a given time period following the original service. Some pest professionals take it a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty pays for the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners must consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can show its dependability and skill. Providers with more pest management experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. Request those agreements 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. Any technician that 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 customer reviews, and talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.