Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum security. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will carefully inspect 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 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 typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on wet spots, potential entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose. 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
If termites are detected in your home, your inspector will recommend a personalized treatment schedule to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to create a barrier around your home. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another possible option is fumigation, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the pest control company might suggest a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections check current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things on your property that could attract termites. Your inspector may recommend structural alterations, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lessen the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid treatments when necessary. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers offer a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of follow-up appointments and extra work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a specified time frame after service. Some exterminators take it a step further and offer repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when selecting 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 provider's time in business can show its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that include guarantees or warranties including reservice and repairs. Request these contracts in writing 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting recommendations from family and friends can offer insight into how customers feel about the company. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the service quality you can expect.