Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies offer can help you make a smart decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this could be a preferable alternative to only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will carefully inspect 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 draw 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 companies typically pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on wet areas, possible entry points, and areas 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
After finding an infestation, an inspection service will create a custom treatment plan to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. 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. Another chemical option is fumigation, which involves vacating your home, tenting it, and filling it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite infestation, the company may advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections evaluate potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector checks for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could bring in termites. The inspection company may advise landscaping modifications 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
Some termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable pest control providers offer continuing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. Part of the service is to also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when necessary. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals support their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified time period following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Be sure to consider the following factors when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more companies. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business usually shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice or repairs. Make sure to get the contracts in print for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Your pesticide applicator should have a commercial applicator license from the Washington State Department of Agriculture. In addition to verifying a company's license, you should also make sure it has appropriate insurance. Any technician that applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online customer reviews, and talk to family and friends for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.