Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection provider offers services that fit both your immediate and future needs. Many providers offer annual inspections paired with preventive care for continuous protection, and this may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
As they go through their inspections for termites, inspectors look for visible damage around your home’s exterior. They focus extra on anything in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp places where moisture could 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 specialists often pair a complete outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors concentrate on damp areas, areas with wood or cellulose, and potential termite entry points. 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
After confirming an infestation, an inspector will create a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical treatments include heat treatments, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to create a barrier around your home. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Another possible option is fumigation, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation tents and saturates homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To eliminate your termite infestation, the company may propose a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive 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 draw termites. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that require landscaping or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Because of this, many pest control companies provide ongoing service plans that include yearly or quarterly inspections. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for signs of new or increased termite activity. They'll also replace baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This reduces the risk of extensive damage. These services frequently come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a given period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty pays for additional appointments or more work needed to address the termites. Some pest professionals go a step further and offer repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that happens after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of key considerations for hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might insist on completing an inspection first before giving a quote.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can show its knowledge and expertise. Providers with more industry experience can typically handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Find a company that offers guarantees or warranties for reservice or repair. 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. 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, look at online reviews, and ask people you trust to understand customer satisfaction with companies you're considering. Strong customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.