Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make a smart decision that fits your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer yearly assessments plus preventive treatments for consistent protection. Depending on your situation, this may be a better option than only treating your termite issue once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector 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 lure 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 specialists typically pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on wet areas, possible entryways, and locations 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
If inspectors find termites in your home, they'll propose a strategic treatment schedule to get rid of the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods 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 tackle your termite problem, the company may advise a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections evaluate for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. An inspection may reveal drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help avoid future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable exterminators offer ongoing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. They'll also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans lower the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers include a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a specified time frame after service. Some exterminators go a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get price estimates from a minimum of three companies. Some might need to complete an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice or repair. Make sure to get the contracts in writing 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and talk to people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.