Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an educated selection that satisfies your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a better option than only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
During the examination process for termites, technicians 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
Pest control specialists typically offer both indoor and outdoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on places that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to potential 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
If inspectors find termites in your home, they'll recommend a strategic treatment plan to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to form a barrier around your home. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Fumigation is another option, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite problem, the professional may recommend a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check for termite-friendly areas and assess current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your home. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans lower the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a certain period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty will pay for additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some pest control companies even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its dependability and skill. Providers with more pest management experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. 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. Any technician that uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and talk to people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.