Best 10 Termite Control Companies in Tampa, FL

A termite infestation is among the biggest expenses a homeowner might face. Tampa, Florida, in particular, has some of the highest termite infestation rates nationwide. These destructive pests chew through trees and wooden structures, including your home's stud and beams. The first step in dealing with a termite infestation is to reach out to an established pest control business to set up a termite inspection. Many companies in Tampa do complete termite inspections followed by treatments designed to eliminate and prevent termites.

Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies

Knowing what services termite inspection companies provide can assist you in making an educated selection that meets your short- and long-term requirements. Many companies offer annual termite assessments with preventive care for consistent coverage. Depending on your circumstances, this might be more valuable than treating termites only once.

Exterior Inspection

• 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

Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around the outside of your home for visible damage. They’ll examine structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could attract termites, such as the following: Signs of a termite infestation include damaged wood, mud tubes, and droppings. If an inspector suspects termites may be in an inaccessible area, they may bore small holes or use tools to inspect the area.

Interior Inspection

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

Termite specialists typically pair a complete outdoor inspection with a detailed indoor inspection. Inside, they look at damp areas, potential entry points, and places with wood or cellulose materials. They may inspect the following: Shed wings, mud tubes, and wood that sounds hollow when struck are all signs of termites. Your inspector may a probing tool and a moisture meter to identify damage and termite-friendly conditions.

Treatment Recommendations

If termites are detected in your house, the inspector will suggest a tailored treatment plan to remove the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth around your house to create 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 introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To manage your existing termite issue, the company may propose a multipronged approach.

Future Vulnerabilities

Comprehensive termite inspections check current problems and potential issues around your home. The inspector searches for plumbing leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other issues that could bring in termites. An inspection may identify drainage issues or termite entry points that need landscaping changes or structural improvements. Making these changes can help prevent future infestations.

Continuous Monitoring

Certain termite treatments need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to keep working properly. For this reason, many reputable exterminators offer continuing service agreements that include yearly or quarterly inspection appointments. As part of this monitoring, a technician will check for signs of new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid termiticides as required. This reduces the risk of extensive damage. These services commonly come with a warranty.

Termite Warranties

Many termite inspection companies provide a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to tackle the termite infestation if they return within a given time period after service. Some pest control professionals go a step further and include repair warranties. These guarantees pay for repairs for new termite damage following treatment.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector

Homeowners should consider several factors 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: A company’s time in business can tell you about its dependability and skill. Providers with more pest management experience can typically handle termites more efficiently.
• Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer guarantees or warranties including reservice and repairs. Request these policies in writing for your records.
• Licensing and insurance: The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services issues both public and commercial pesticide applicator licenses for professional pest experts. To obtain a license, an individual must have a certain level of experience or pass an exam. You should also verify that the company is properly insured. Anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
• Reputation and reviews: Customer satisfaction on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other review platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Providers with good reviews tend to provide great service overall.

How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?

You can expect the price of a termite inspection to be $39–$217 in Tampa. The price varies based on the provider and your location. Many pest control providers offer free termite inspections to assess your particular situation. The inspector can suggest solutions and give a personalized estimate. After the inspection, you can select a standalone treatment or a continuing service plan. Certain companies provide termite inspections along with other home inspection services geared toward homebuyers and sellers. If so, you can expect to pay an inspection fee.

Sources

• Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency