Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many companies offer annual assessments paired with preventive treatments for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will meticulously check over 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 specialists typically combine an outside check with a thorough inside check. Indoors, inspectors concentrate on potential termite entry points, areas with wood or cellulose, and damp areas. They often 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
After confirming an infestation, an inspector will propose a strategic treatment plan to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and biological agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. Fumigation is a more intensive solution that involves vacating your home, tenting it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To tackle your termite problem, the inspector may recommend a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections assess potential vulnerabilities in addition to current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. The inspector may propose landscaping modifications or structural alterations to improve drainage and reduce potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will reduce your chance 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 yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for evidence of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies 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 any follow-up visits or extra work needed to address the termites. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three providers. Keep in mind that they may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can tell you about its knowledge and expertise. Companies with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those agreements 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. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Positive customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.