Best 10 Termite Control Companies in Waukegan, IL

Termites pose a major threat to Waukegan, Illinois, homeowners—even though the area has lower rates of infestation than some other places, the results of a termite invasion can be devastating. These pests feast on and damage wood like trees and building materials, costing property owners a lot to repair the damage. If termites have invaded your home, your first step should be arranging for a trusted pest control provider to complete a termite inspection. Many local pest control companies can check for termites and advise specific treatment options to eliminate them and prevent new infestations.

Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies

Knowing what services termite inspection providers offer can help you make an educated selection that fits your immediate and future needs. Many companies provide yearly inspections plus preventive solutions for consistent coverage. Depending on your needs, this might be a better solution than only addressing your termite issue 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

A pest professional will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that meet the ground and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could draw termites, such as the following: Possible evidence of termites include droppings, damaged wood, and mud tubes. If an inspector believes termites may be active where they can't see, they might make tiny holes or use particular tools to probe for them.

Interior Inspection

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

Pest control companies often pair a complete outside check with a detailed inside check. Indoors, inspectors look at damp areas, areas with wood or cellulose, and potential termite entry points. They typically look at the following: Shed wings, mud tubes, and wood that sounds hollow when tapped are all signs of termites. Your inspector might a probing tool and a moisture meter to check for damage and termite-friendly environments.

Treatment Recommendations

If an inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest a customized treatment plan to remove the termites efficiently. Nontoxic options exist, too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and flooding it with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite problem, the inspector might recommend a multipronged method.

Future Vulnerabilities

Complete termite inspections look at current issues as well as potential future problems. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other things that could draw termites. The inspection company may recommend landscaping or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and improve drainage. Fixing these issues decreases the risk of future pest problems.

Continuous Monitoring

Termite solutions may need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. During this monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. The technician will also swap out baits and reapply liquid treatments when needed. These plans decrease the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.

Termite Warranties

Termite inspection companies often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to handle the termite problem if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some exterminators go a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties pay for repairs for new termite damage after treatment.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector

Homeowners should consider several key factors when hiring a termite inspector.

• Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may need to evaluate your home before providing an estimate.
• Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its trustworthiness and knowledge. Companies with more years of experience tend to resolve termite problems more efficiently.
• Guarantees: Look for companies that offer guarantees or warranties covering reservice and repairs. Request these agreements in writing for your records.
• Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in Illinois must have a commercial applicator's license from the Illinois Department of Agriculture. You should also verify that the company is properly insured. Any technician who 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 reviews, and talk to friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.

How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?

You can expect the fee for termite inspection to be $40–$225 in Waukegan. The price varies based on the inspector and your address. Many pest management companies offer free termite inspections. This allows them to evaluate your situation, propose solutions, and provide a custom quote. After the inspection, you can select a standalone treatment or a regular service contract. Some businesses provide termite inspections with other home inspection services intended for homebuyers and sellers. If so, expect to pay an inspection fee.

Sources

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