What to expect from a termite inspection Chicago?
A termite infestation can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your home and, in extreme cases, can even exceed the house's value. It's time to schedule a termite inspection if you know or suspect you have termites on your property. Here's what you can expect.
Preparing for a Termite Inspection
When you schedule your termite inspection, inquire with your inspector about what you should do to prepare. The termite inspector will need access to your garage and exterior walls, as well as your attic, crawl space, sinks, and other areas of your home. Move household items to make it easier for the inspector to access:
The garage's walls. Remove items from the garage walls two feet away so the inspector can see where the walls meet the slab floor. Termites gain access to the garage through expansion joints.
The area beneath the house. The inspector will go under your house if it has a raised foundation. The inspector must gain access to the crawl space, which is usually done from the outside of the house. Remove any items that are blocking the crawl space's entrance.
Attic. Clear the way for the inspector to enter your attic. Remove clothing and other stored items if the attic access is in a closet so that insulation does not fall on them.
Sinks. Remove anything from under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. The inspector will look for leaks as well as termite evidence.
The inspector will be looking for the following:
In your home, look for the following signs of termite activity or infestation:
Termite excrement
Swarming evidence (such as discarded wings)
Tubes for mud
Wood that is hollow or damaged
Termites in the wild
Potential termite entry points include:
Foundation cracks near the plumbing
Joints for expansion (found in the garage and other places)
Walls made of hollow blocks
The exterior of foundation walls and piers
Conditions in your home that may lead to future termite infestations:
Plumbing dripping
Contact between wood and soil
The following are some questions to ask your termite inspector:
What are your recommendations for termite treatments?
How long will it take to treat the termites?
What is the location of the termite activity or infestation?
What can I do to avoid future infestations?
What is the cost of the initial treatment?
How much does it cost to extend protection?
What kind of guarantee do you offer?