Termite Inspectors are Termite Detectives, Part 2: In Part 1, I talked about how the inspection begins with an interview and the clues found in inspection and fumigation tags and termite droppings. In Part 2, we’ll look at all the other sources that help us crack the case and recommend the best solution for your […]
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Termite Inspectors are Termite Detectives, Part One: I always thought I would have made an excellent detective. I even applied to the state police—twice. The first time, my future ex-wife told me she’d break up with me if I became a policeman. (In hindsight, I could’ve saved myself a lot of pain and anguish if
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What to Expect During a Termite Inspection First, a quick disclaimer: I can only speak to what you can expect from a California Termite inspection. Not every company operates the way we do—and frankly, we think that’s a good thing. Call Before Going: We always call or text when we’re on our way. It might
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The Case of the Infested Couch: A Lesson in Thorough Termite Inspections I was performing an annual drywood termite inspection in Encinitas, California for a property just a mile from the beach. The owner had a termite warranty in place, and as part of that coverage, I was back to make sure nothing new had
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A Termite Inspector’s Balancing Act Termite inspectors serve multiple customers: the homeowner, their boss, and the fumigator or termite technician who will ultimately perform the treatment. Homeowners A good termite inspector is thorough, knowledgeable, honest, and adaptable. Thoroughness is key when the goal is to offer treatment options. A localized treatment is only as good
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Attic Hazards Attic Hazards Nails. Attics are filled with nails — thousands of them — protruding through the roof sheathing, their sharp points just waiting to get you. I’ve hit my head on them so many times that I joke about styling my hair with Neosporin. It’s not funny when it happens, though. Truss Plates.
Termite Inspection Attic Mishaps Ask any termite inspector or technician how many times they’ve put a foot through a ceiling, and they’ll likely give you an exact number—along with a vivid, sad story. No one ever wants to step through a ceiling; it’s one of the worst feelings imaginable. If it happens during an initial
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Communication in the Termite Industry A termite inspection isn’t just about identifying termites and other wood-destroying organisms—it’s also about clear communication between the inspector and the termite technicians who will complete the treatment. Inspectors use two key tools to relay information: graphs and chalk marks. Graphs: Mapping the Infestation Graphs, created on paper or a
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10 Items a Termite Inspector Considers When Buying a Home Termite inspectors have seen it all—thousands of homes with various pest-related challenges. With that experience comes a unique perspective, one that’s impossible to leave behind when purchasing a home. Here’s what a termite inspector might focus on: 1. Twin Homes Connected homes present a fumigation
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8 Termite Company Red Flags Less Than Thorough Inspections Many large termite companies tend to conduct inspections that are less detailed than they should be. Here’s why: Focus on Selling Fumigation: Once termites are detected, their main goal is often to sell you on fumigation. This is because their companies don’t offer comprehensive, non-tenting solutions.
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