Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an informed decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive treatments for maximum security. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might 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 a comprehensive outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors concentrate on areas with wood or cellulose, damp areas, and potential termite entry points. They typically 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
If termites are detected in your home, your pest control professional will propose a customized treatment schedule to eliminate the termites safely and successfully. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground to form a barrier around your house. 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 fix your current termite situation, the pest control company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector searches for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may require regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. The technician will also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of more appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest control companies offer extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers fixes for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience tend to handle termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that includes guarantees or warranties 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. Any technician that applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Checking out businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, perusing online reviews, and getting recommendations from family and friends can offer insight into the customer experience. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the level of service you can expect.