Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make an informed choice that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent protection. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a preferable alternative to only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will meticulously check over 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 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
Exterminators typically combine an outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors focus on damp areas, areas with wood or cellulose, and potential termite entry points. 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 identified in your house, the pest control provider will suggest a customized treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include baits and liquid termiticides. Baits consist of an insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts and kills termites, while liquid termiticides soak into the soil to form a protective barrier around your home. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite infestation, the company may propose a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections assess for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your house. The inspector may recommend landscaping modifications or structural changes to improve drainage and reduce potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will reduce your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a given period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some pest control providers even offer 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 key considerations for choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some may need to complete an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business can indicate its reliability and expertise. More time in the field typically results in more experience dealing with termite invasions.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that include reservice or repair. Get the 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: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online reviews, and ask friends and family for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.