Best 5 Termite Control Companies in Seattle, WA

Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies

Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies provide yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum security. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.

Exterior Inspection

A pest professional will carefully inspect 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 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

Possible evidence of termites include damaged wood, droppings, and mud tubes. If an inspector believes termites may be in hard-to-reach places, they might make tiny holes or use particular tools to probe for them.

Interior Inspection

Termite specialists generally pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a thorough indoor inspection. Indoors, they concentrate on humid areas, potential entryways, and areas with wood or cellulose. They may examine the following:

• Attics
• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Doorframes
• Exposed beams or studs
• Exterior walls
• Hardwood floors
• Under-sink cabinets
• Windowsills
• Wooden furniture

Evidence of termites include abandoned wings, mud tunnels, and eaten wood, which often sounds hollow when tapped. The inspector may use a moisture meter and a probing tool to look for termite damage and termite-friendly conditions.

Treatment Recommendations

If termites are detected in your home, your pest control professional will suggest a customized treatment plan 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. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include baits and liquid termiticides. Baits consist of an insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts and kills termites, while liquid termiticides soak into the soil to form a protective barrier around your home. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, enclosing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the inspection company might advise a multipronged approach.

Future Vulnerabilities

Complete termite inspections assess for areas prone to termites and assess current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your home. The inspection company may recommend landscaping modifications or structural changes to minimize possible entry points and enhance drainage. Taking care of these issues lowers the chance of future pest problems.

Continuous Monitoring

Termite solutions may need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to stay effective. Many termite inspection companies offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will look for new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. 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 additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a given time period following the original service. Some exterminators offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This includes fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector

There are several factors that homeowners should consider when choosing a termite inspector.

• Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may insist on inspecting the problem before providing an estimate.
• Experience: A company's history often shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience tend to handle termite invasions more effectively.
• Guarantees: Choose an inspector with guarantees or warranties that cover 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 applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
• Reputation and reviews: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and talk to people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests you'll likely be satisfied with the service.

How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?

A termite inspection in Seattle typically costs $41–$229. The exact rate depends on the inspector you hire and your address. Many pest control providers offer free termite inspections to assess your specific situation. A provider can suggest solutions and give a personalized estimate. After the inspection, you can choose a single treatment or a continuing service plan. Some providers offer termite inspections along with other home inspection services designed for homebuyers and sellers. In that case, expect to pay an inspection fee.

Sources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• Washington State Department of Agriculture