Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum coverage. This could be a preferable alternative to a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, trained professionals look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything meeting the earth, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture 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
When evaluating for termites, professionals generally pair the exterior inspection with a detailed interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on damp spots, possible entry points, and anywhere 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 finding an infestation, an inspector will create a tailored treatment schedule to remove the termites safely and effectively. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical treatments are more common and 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. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite infestation, the company may recommend a multipronged method.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 attract termites. The inspection company might suggest landscape improvements or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and increase drainage. Taking care of these issues decreases the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans lower the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some pest professionals go 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 important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three specialists. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who include warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repairs. Request these 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. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Customer satisfaction on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on quality of service. Companies with good reviews tend to provide excellent service overall.