Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum security. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest professional will meticulously check over 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 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 pair an outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Inside, they concentrate on wet spots, possible entry points, and places 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 confirming an infestation, an inspector will propose a tailored treatment schedule to eradicate the termites safely and effectively. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates 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. Another possible option is fumigation, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your current termite infestation, the pest professional might suggest a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check for termite-friendly areas and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your home. Your inspector may advise structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will lower the risk of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. The technician will also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties pay for the cost of more appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a set time period following the original service. Some pest control companies even include repair warranties. These cover costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that they may not be able to give you an accurate estimate without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its dependability and skill. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite infestations more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a provider with guarantees or warranties that include reservice or repair. Get the agreements 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: Satisfaction ratings from customers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as word-of-mouth, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide top-notch service overall.