Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive care for maximum protection. This could be a preferable alternative to 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 come into contact with the ground, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might entice 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 companies usually pair a comprehensive outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they focus on damp areas, possible entryways, and places with wood or cellulose. 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 inspectors find termites in your home, they'll suggest a personalized treatment plan to get rid of 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) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth 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 problem, the pest professional might propose a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check potential weak spots and current problems in your home. The inspector looks for wood-to-soil contact, plumbing leaks, and other issues that could bring in termites. Your inspector may recommend structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to increase drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality pest control providers offer ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians look for new or worsening termite activity. Part of this involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and often comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspectors include a reservice warranty with their services, which pays for the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they return within a specified time frame after service. Some pest control providers even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to assess your situation in person before providing an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. More years in the field usually translates to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Find an inspector that offers warranties or guarantees for reservice or repairs. Request those 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. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Look up each company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online reviews, and ask family and friends for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.