Best 5 Termite Control Companies in Vancouver, WA

Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies

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

Exterior Inspection

Technicians inspecting for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that meet the earth, 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

Possible signs of termites include mud tubes, damaged wood, and droppings. If an inspector suspects that termites are active where they can't see, they might bore tiny holes or use particular tools to check for them.

Interior Inspection

Termite specialists often pair a complete outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors focus on potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. They often look at the following:

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

Signs of termites include abandoned wings, mud tubes, and chewed wood, which often sounds hollow when tapped. The inspector may use a moisture meter and a probing tool to check for termite damage and termite-friendly environments.

Treatment Recommendations

If an inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to eliminate the termites efficiently. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Many providers prefer to use chemical treatments, which are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Two main types are termite baits and liquid termiticides. Termites baits consist of a cellulose material laced with a slow-acting termiticide. Liquid termiticides soak into the soil around your home to create a protective barrier. Fumigation is another chemical option. This involves vacating your home, sealing it inside a tent, and filling it with gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite problem, the inspection company might recommend a multipronged approach.

Future Vulnerabilities

Thorough termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will look for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as wood-to-soil contact and plumbing leaks. The inspection company might suggest landscaping modifications or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and increase drainage. Taking care of these issues reduces the likelihood of future pest problems.

Continuous Monitoring

Termite solutions may require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement 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 verify new or increased termite activity. The technician will also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and frequently include a warranty.

Termite Warranties

Termite inspection professionals often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain period of time after service. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage following treatment.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector

There are a number of important considerations for hiring a termite inspector.

• Cost: Contact at least three providers for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
• Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its trustworthiness and knowledge. Providers with more pest management experience can often handle termites more effectively.
• Guarantees: Look for providers that include warranties or guarantees including reservice and repairs. Get these 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: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting advice from friends and family can offer insight into the customer experience. Good customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.

How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?

A termite inspection in Vancouver typically costs $38–$216. The exact rate depends on the company performing the inspection and your address. Many pest control providers offer free termite inspections. This gives them a chance to evaluate your specific situation, recommend solutions, and provide a personalized estimate. You can then choose either a one-time treatment or ongoing services. Some inspectors include termite inspections with an array of home inspection services focused on homebuyers and sellers. In this case, you can expect to pay a fee for the inspection.

Sources

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