Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many providers offer annual assessments paired with preventive solutions for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will meticulously check over your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that come into contact with the earth and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could draw 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 typically provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they focus on locations that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as possible termite entry points. They might check the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
After confirming an infestation, an inspection service will recommend a strategic treatment schedule to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite infestation, the inspector may suggest a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections evaluate current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could draw termites. The inspection company may advise landscaping or structural changes to reduce possible entry points and enhance drainage. Taking care of these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service reduces the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspectors provide 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 come back within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control providers even offer repair warranties. These cover costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of key considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may need to assess your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business usually shows its reliability and expertise. Providers with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with guarantees or warranties that encompass reservice or repair. 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. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.