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 providers offer annual termite inspections with preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this may be more valuable than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
Professionals performing termite inspections will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll check over structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could attract 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 look at damp areas, potential entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose. They may 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 an inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest an effective treatment plan to eliminate the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are liquid termiticides and termite baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil to create a protective barrier around your home, while termite baits contain cellulose material laced with a slow-acting insecticide. 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 handle your current termite issue, the pest professional might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections look at potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will search for conditions that could draw termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. The inspector may advise landscaping improvements or structural changes to enhance drainage and lessen potential entry points. Addressing these issues will lower your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. They'll also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans lower the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain period of time after service. Some companies 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
Homeowners should consider several factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. More time in the field typically results in more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Find a company that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those contracts 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting input from friends and neighbors can provide insight into how customers feel about the company. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.