Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an informed choice that matches your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this may be a better option than only treating your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors checking for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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
When evaluating for termites, professionals typically pair the exterior inspection with a thorough interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on wet areas, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. 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 termites are detected in your home, your inspector will propose a personalized treatment schedule to eradicate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like 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, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your current termite infestation, the inspector might recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections assess potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will check for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. The inspection company may recommend landscape improvements or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and enhance drainage. Addressing these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. For this reason, many reputable exterminators offer ongoing service agreements that include annual or quarterly inspections. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans lower the chance of major damage and commonly include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection providers often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty will pay for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of key considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may need to inspect your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can tell you about its dependability and skill. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with warranties or guarantees that cover reservice or repairs. Get the agreements in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in Utah must be licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Food. In addition to verifying a company's license, you should also confirm that it's properly insured. Any technician that applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting advice from friends and neighbors can provide insight into customer service. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.