Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can help you make an informed choice that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this may be a better option than only addressing your termite problem once.
Exterior Inspection
Termite inspectors will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll examine structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas 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
Pest control companies often pair a comprehensive outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at damp areas, potential termite entry points, and areas with wood or cellulose. They usually look at 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 suggest a strategic treatment schedule to eliminate the termites effectively and safely. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and natural pest control agents like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil to form a barrier around your home. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Fumigation is another option, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To get rid of your termite problem, the inspector may recommend a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate for termite-friendly areas and assess current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. The inspector may advise landscaping modifications or structural changes to improve drainage and minimize potential entry points. Fixing these issues will reduce your risk of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With 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 required. These plans lower the chance of major damage and commonly include 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 come back within a certain time frame after service. 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
There are a number of important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with warranties or guarantees that include reservice or repair. 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 uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Satisfaction ratings from customers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Providers with good reviews tend to provide top-notch service overall.