My Open Book

You have gotten your inspection, three estimates, and done some background checking on each of the finalists. You are now ready to choose which of the exterminators you will select to rid your home of its termite infestation. But before you sign a contract with termite exterminators, there are some things you should look for to make sure the agreement is in your best interest and will get the job done.

In order for you to be able to look out for the following areas of concern, you must first become familiar with the requirements for inspection and treatment of your state pest control agency or board. Now you are ready for the final review before signing the contract. Is there a diagram of the structure or structures to be treated including noting where the infestation is? The diagram should also show where signs of the infestation were found. What specific termiticides and other agents will be used and to what extent? You should then check to make sure that none of the members of your household will be affected adversely by whatever processes and products will be used.

Is a warranty or service contract provided? What is the period of time in which the warranty will be in effect and what will it cover? How will you know if the infestation has been completely eradicated? Will there be follow-up visits? If so, will there be additional charges for these? Are there areas of infestation which will not be treated? If so, why not and what are the recommendations for such areas? Can the warranty be extended? If so, at what cost?

Finally, you want to make sure that the contract is being signed by a representative of a company and not some individual doing a job on the side. How to kill termites or termite extermination is not so difficult afterall.