Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can assist you in making an educated selection that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies offer annual termite assessments with preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this may be more helpful than addressing 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 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
Termite inspectors generally pair an outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on wet areas, possible entryways, and areas with wood or cellulose. 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 inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, they'll suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite problem, the pest control company might recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections assess for areas prone to termites and assess current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. The inspection company might suggest landscaping modifications or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and improve drainage. Addressing these issues reduces the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may 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. As part of this monitoring, the technician checks for signs of new or increased termite activity. A professional will also swap out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as needed. This diminishes the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies include 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 return within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control professionals go a step further and include repair warranties. These guarantees pay for repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some may need to complete an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can show its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the agreements 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. 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, look at online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.