Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can assist you in making an informed decision that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer annual termite inspections with preventive treatments for consistent coverage. Depending on your situation, this may be more helpful than treating termites only once.
Exterior Inspection
A trained inspector will thoroughly examine your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil 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
Interior Inspection
Termite companies generally offer both indoor and outdoor inspections. Indoors, they concentrate on areas that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as potential termite entry points. They may 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 an infestation is found, your inspector will propose a strategic treatment schedule to eradicate the termites effectively and safely. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If these treatments aren't enough, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To handle your existing termite issue, the inspector may propose a multipronged solution.Future Vulnerabilities
Full termite inspections look at potential entry points as well as current issues. Inspectors search for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other things on your property that could attract termites. The inspector may advise landscaping improvements or structural changes to increase drainage and minimize potential entry points. Addressing these issues will decrease your likelihood of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Because of this, many exterminators provide ongoing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspection visits. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. The service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. This lessens the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection companies 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 extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some exterminators provide extra protection with a repair warranty. This covers repairs for any new termite damage following treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners must consider when choosing a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from three or more providers. Some may need to evaluate your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business often shows its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more industry experience can typically handle termite invasions more effectively.
- Guarantees: Look for providers that offer warranties or guarantees covering reservice and repairs. Request these policies 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: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, read online customer reviews, and talk to friends and family for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the service quality you can expect.