Termite Inspection – Key Considerations

Termite inspection is the term most commonly used for a general determination of the presence of wood-destroying insects and organisms. Depending on local and state codes, this inspection may include all known organisms or may include only the most common culprits: termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees and wood-boring beetles.

A termite inspection is a relatively simple process of visually inspecting the interior and exterior of the building and readily accessible spaces including basements, attics and crawlspaces. A home inspection should take less than an hour, unless the home is unusually large or clutter prevents the inspector from easily visualizing all the necessary spaces. It is also important to note that a general home inspection does not generally include a termite inspection.

Getting What You Pay For

Like most other things, when hiring a service professional, you get what you pay for. With so many different extermination methods and products, there are many companies which offer cost-cutting options that almost always mean they’re skimping on either the effectiveness or the safety of the chemicals. While nobody wants to spend the extra money, it’s important to find a competent company to avoid re-infestation or harming the environment and/or the health of household members and neighbors. On the other hand, you don’t want to simply find the most expensive exterminator, either.

Using the Inspection as an Audition

Before any extermination begins, a termite inspection must be done. Make sure the inspection is scheduled during a time when you can be present. This will allow you not only to judge the professionalism of the company and its inspectors, but will give you the opportunity to ask questions about your specific situation. It’s a good idea to ask what, if any, kind of bug is infesting the building and how bad the infestation is.