Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make a smart decision that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many companies provide yearly inspections plus preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll examine structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas 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
Termite inspectors usually pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on humid spots, potential entryways, and areas with wood or cellulose materials. 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
After finding an infestation, a pest control professional will propose a custom treatment plan to remove the termites safely and effectively. Alternatives to chemicals include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, tenting it, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite infestation, the professional may recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector looks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could draw termites. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many termite inspection companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves changing out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection providers often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control providers even include repair warranties. These cover costs to fix new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can tell you about its knowledge and expertise. Providers with more industry experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who include warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repair. Get these agreements 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Customer satisfaction on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Companies with good reviews tend to provide top-notch service overall.