Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company provides services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many exterminators offer annual inspections paired with preventive solutions for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
As they go through their inspections for termites, trained professionals look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They pay close attention to anything touching the ground, 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 usually provide both indoor and outdoor inspections. Inside, they focus on locations that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, in addition to potential termite entry points. They may check the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
After verifying an infestation, an inspection service will create a custom treatment schedule to remove the termites safely and effectively. Nonchemical treatments 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 liquid termiticides and termite baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil to create a protective barrier around your home, while termite baits contain cellulose material laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your current termite problem, the pest professional might suggest a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could draw termites. The inspection company may advise landscape improvements or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and improve drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians assess for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often offer 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 period of time after service. Some pest control companies even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some might need to complete an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company’s time in business can tell you about its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience can often handle termites more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the policies in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: In Virginia, pesticide applicators may hold either a commercial applicator for hire license or a technician registration from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Technicians must work for at least a year before getting an applicator license. Always verify a provider's licensing and insurance. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online reviews from customers, and ask family and friends for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.