Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an informed decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide annual termite inspections with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this may be more valuable than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots 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 specialists usually pair a complete outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on humid spots, possible entryways, and areas 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
After finding an infestation, a pest control professional will propose a strategic treatment plan to eliminate the termites safely and effectively. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite infestation, the professional may recommend a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things that could attract termites. Your inspector may suggest structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lessen the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable termite inspection businesses offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and frequently comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control providers even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners should consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some might insist on completing an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations 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 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, read online reviews, and talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.