Termites are the most destructive and financially damaging pests in the US and a nightmare for homeowners. Around $5 billion are spent every year to repair the damages termites inflict.

If you want to get a termite inspection done in your home, the following frequently asked questions (FAQs) will clear your doubts.

1.    Why do I need to have a termite inspection?

If you live in a state or region like California which has a history of termite infestation, it is better to get periodical inspections as a preventive measure. It is also a common practice to do an inspection when buying a house to ensure there are no termites.

2.     How can I prepare for a termite inspection?

Termites create their nests in dark, damp, or moist places, and the inspector will require access to the different parts of your home, such as the attic, storeroom, garage, crawl spaces, or basement. The inspector will also check outside your house for signs of termites. Just make sure that there is enough space for the inspector to carry out the inspection.

3.     Do we have to vacate the house during the inspection?

You may have to vacate the house if there are dry wood termites. It is possible to control subterranean termites without vacating the house. The inspector will explain the necessary procedures.

4.     How long does an inspection usually take?

It depends on the size of your property and the methods the inspector uses to do the inspection. Typically, a termite inspection may take anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours. Most often, it does not take longer than that because an experienced inspector knows where to look for signs of termites.

5.     What do the inspectors look for?

During a termite inspection, an inspector will look for telltale signs of a termite infestation. The signs include:

• Wood damaged with long and deep grooves.
• Mud tubes in and around your house, near wooden structures, sills, on subfloors, and beneath the porches.
• Cracks in the wall and other areas through which termites can enter.

Inspectors also tap on the wall to find out if it sounds hollow as it indicates the presence of termites.

6.     Will the inspector check for other wood-destroying insects besides termites? 

Yes, other than subterranean and dry wood termites, inspectors also look for wood-destroying beetles, carpenter bees, and ants. Inspectors have the experience and knowledge to identify and treat them.

                                                         Read Also: 5 Debunked Myths on Termite Infestation in California

7.     What is next once the inspection is over?

Once the inspection is done, you will receive a report based on the inspector's observation. The report will contain the extent and areas of termite infestation. The report will also have recommendations on the termite treatments required as preventative measures for the future.

8.     What to do if your property already has extensive termite damage? 

If the termite inspection shows that your property already has extensive damage due to termites, it will need repair. This is a specialized job that trained and experienced termite experts can easily perform.

During the termite treatment, experts will identify the areas with water damage, fungus damage, soil to wood contacts, and plumbing leaks. Subsequently, they will apply gas or chemical to eliminate termites. Consult the experts so that they use registered and non-repellant chemicals like Termidor.

9.     What is the tentative cost of a termite inspection?

The cost of a termite inspection varies, depending on the size of a property, the nature of the termite, and the extent of the infestation. It also depends on the rates of the termite control company.

Contact Us Today for Termite Inspection!

You can get comprehensive termite inspection services and treatment in many areas in California from HI TECH Termite Control. We use the advanced microwave technology to eliminate termites, coupled with a state-registered non-repellant chemical called Termidor.

For termite inspection or treatment, contact us today at (888) 322-8889 or send an email to info@hitechtermite.com, and we will be glad to assist you.