Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an educated decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum security. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that meet the earth, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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
When evaluating for termites, companies generally pair the exterior inspection with a detailed interior inspection. This inspection focuses on wet spots, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. 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 discovered in your house, the inspector will usually suggest a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites effectively. Nontoxic options exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Another chemical option is fumigation, which involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite issue, the inspection company might suggest a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. The inspector may propose landscaping improvements or structural alterations to enhance drainage and reduce potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many exterminators provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspectors offer a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a given time period after service. Some pest control professionals go a step further and provide repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of key considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that they may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can show its trustworthiness and knowledge. Providers with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that offers 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. Any technician that applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting advice from friends and family can offer insight into customer service. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.