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 companies offer annual inspections paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
As they go through their inspections for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on 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
Termite specialists typically combine a complete outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors look at areas with wood or cellulose, potential termite entry points, and damp areas. They typically look at 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 strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like 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, tenting it, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the company may advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive 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 wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. The inspector may propose landscaping improvements or structural modifications to improve drainage and reduce potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will lower your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers provide a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of extra visits or work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control providers even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some may need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business usually shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that include guarantees or warranties including reservice and repair. Request these policies 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and talk to people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.