When termites infiltrate a 2x4 stud they devour the soft woods inside lumber that could be part of your home or business. Termites do not eat the entire piece of wood where pieces are missing but rather they destroy the structural integrity of the wood by eating most of the wood and only leave hollow galleries.

As an Arizona pest management and professional termite inspector for over 22 years, I have seen a lot of damage in structures caused by termites. Unfortunately much of the damage could have been controlled or at least reduced had the owners of the property taken preventative measures.

If you own a home in Arizona, I strongly recommend that you have a qualified inspector make an inspection to your home or business property for termites on an annual basis. A good inspector should inspect your structures for any signs of termite evidence and should also focus on potential conditions that could lead to termite infestations. The leading cause for termites here in the Phoenix and the surrounding areas is moisture. Termites need moisture to survive in the extreme summertime temperatures that we have in a desert environment. As part of an inspection, you should expect to receive a report showing moisture conditions around the structure such as leaking faucets, pipe leaks, roof leaks, improper grade allowing water to puddle or run toward the structure, just to mention a few moisture conditions.

A quality Arizona pest management service should be able to offer a termite inspection service, as well as treatment options, and a warranty to provide ongoing inspection and treatments if necessary should termites return.

While there are many companies in Arizona offering termite control and inspection services, it is best to do your homework. It is extremely important for a consumer to realize that while there are as many different ways to solve your termite problems as there are companies making offers, you should never base your choice solely on price. It is true in this industry that you get what you pay for!

You should look for this when choosing a great Arizona pest management company:

- A thorough inspection

- A well drafted diagram, reflecting the findings of the inspection.

- The diagram for treatment should also be very clear as to what services will be performed.

- You should expect a written agreement

- All service terms should be clearly spelled out

- The price should be clearly stated

- The details of the treatment should be written

- Who’s moving what? Make sure you know!

- Where are drilling? Oh what do you mean they aren’t drilling? Alternative treatment? What?

- Full treat, spot treat, perimeter treatment only – do you really know what you are getting?

- And one of my favorite subjects – how long is the warranty?

Every company does it different. And remember the old saying …if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

I always recommend a one year warranty, maybe two - most companies will offer this – it should include an annual inspection if you request it.

Yes, some companies offer 2 year, 3 year, 5 year and even a couple offer 10 years – sound good right? Buyer beware - longer isn’t always better. Most great companies, offer a 1 year warranty, they will come out and do the inspection on an annual basis and collect the fees to extend the warranty another year – simple good business practices – no long term promises – nobody knows what will be happening three to five years from now, and especially 10 years.

Most warranties are retreatment warranties – if termites come back so will the company.

No – your home owners’ insurance policy does not cover termites! Sorry, we get asked this question almost daily.

No matter whom you choose, do your research, ask your friends and neighbors, get several estimates and choose wisely.

Invader Pest Management is a premium pest management company that can certainly solve all your pest management needs and termites are one of our specialties. Please give us the opportunity to meet your pest control needs by calling 623-435-0228 or scheduling on-line. Invader also provides 3rd party consulting at an hourly rate for serious termite issues, if you need an objective 3rd party ask for Fred Willey.

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