Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer annual inspections paired with preventive solutions for continuous protection, and this may be a preferable alternative to a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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 inspectors typically pair an outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they focus on damp spots, possible entryways, and locations with wood or cellulose materials. They might examine 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 pest control professional will recommend a customized treatment plan to eliminate the termites effectively and safely. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to create a protective barrier. Baits contain cellulose laced with slow-acting insecticide. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, tenting it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite infestation, the pest professional might advise a multipronged method.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections evaluate potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that call for landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits diminish the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection providers 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 extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some pest professionals take it a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners must consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three providers. Some might insist on completing an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A company's history often reflects its dependability and skill. Companies with more pest management experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for companies that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repair. Request these 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: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, browse online reviews, and get feedback from people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.