Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can assist you in making an educated selection that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this might be more valuable than addressing termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert 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 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 usually provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on areas that are damp or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as possible termite entry points. They may examine 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 eliminate the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, 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 soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite issue, the pest professional might advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector looks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspection company might suggest landscaping modifications or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Fixing these issues reduces the risk of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. A professional will also switch out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This reduces the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection companies often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty will pay for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control companies provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some may need to complete an assessment first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can tell you about its dependability and skill. Providers with more industry experience can often handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the 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. 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, browse online reviews, and talk to people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.