What Questions to Ask the Termite Control Company?
Termites are called silent destroyers for a reason. They can chew through the wood in your home for months before you notice, and the repair bills can run into the thousands. That is why the company you hire matters just as much as the treatment itself. Most people only compare prices, but the smarter move is to ask the right questions first. Here are the key questions to ask any termite control company before you sign a contract.
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters
Not every termite control company works to the same standard. Some use outdated methods, some cut corners, and a few will quote a low price just to win the job and pile on fees later. Asking a few clear questions upfront helps you spot the real professionals, avoid nasty surprises, and make sure your home gets treated the first time properly.
Key Questions to Ask a Termite Control Company
Run through these before you decide. A good company will answer all of them without hesitation.
Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is the first thing to confirm. The company should hold a valid state license that covers wood-destroying pests and carry insurance that protects your property if something goes wrong during treatment. Ask to see proof. If they dodge this question, walk away.
How Experienced Are You With Termites?
Termites are not the same as general bugs, so you want a team that treats them often. Ask how many years they have handled termite work and whether their technicians are trained specifically for it. More experience usually means a faster, more accurate diagnosis.
What Does the Inspection Include?
A proper inspection should cover both the inside and outside of your home, not just a quick glance. Ask whether the inspection is free or paid, and make sure they identify the termite type and how bad the problem is before recommending any treatment. You should get a written report with their findings.
Which Treatment Do You Recommend, and Why?
There is no single fix for every home. Ask what method they suggest, whether it is a liquid barrier, bait system, heat, or fumigation, and why it fits your situation. A good company explains the plan in plain language instead of rushing you into a contract.
Are Your Products Safe for Family and Pets?
Termite treatments involve chemicals, so it is fair to ask about safety. A reputable company will tell you which product they use, how long you need to keep kids and pets away, and whether any prep work is needed before they begin.
Do You Offer a Written Warranty?
Strong companies stand behind their work. Ask if the treatment comes with a written warranty, how long it lasts, and exactly what it covers. Find out the difference between a re-treatment guarantee, which repeats the treatment if termites return, and a damage warranty, which helps with new damage. Also ask what could void it.
How Long Will It Take, and Do I Need to Leave?
Timelines vary by method and how severe the problem is. Ask how long the treatment will take and whether you and your pets need to leave the home, which is common with fumigation. Knowing this ahead of time helps you plan.
How Will You Help Prevent Future Termites?
The best termite control companies do more than treat. They point out what is drawing termites in, like moisture or wood-to-soil contact, and tell you how to keep them away. Ask whether ongoing monitoring or annual inspections are part of the plan.
Red Flags to Watch For
As you talk to each company, keep an eye out for warning signs. Be cautious if they cannot show proof of a license or insurance, avoid clear answers about their methods, refuse to give references, or offer a price that seems too good to be true. Honest companies are happy to explain their work and put everything in writing.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right termite control company really comes down to asking the right questions. When you check their license, experience, treatment plan, warranty, and safety steps, you protect both your home and your money. A trustworthy company will welcome every question and give you clear, written answers.
If termites may already be at work in your home, do not wait. Call Garman Pest Control at 740-908-0348 to book an inspection and get a full plan before the damage spreads.
FAQs
Check that they are licensed and insured, ask for references or reviews, and make sure they give written quotes and warranties. A legit company answers your questions openly and never pressures you to sign on the spot.
Many companies offer free inspections along with a quote, though some charge for detailed or real estate inspections. Always ask upfront so nothing catches you off guard on the bill.
A re-treatment guarantee means the company treats again for free if termites come back. A damage warranty helps cover new termite damage to your home. Ask which one you are getting, since they are not the same.
It varies, but many warranties run for about a year and can often be renewed with an annual inspection. Ask how long yours lasts and what you need to do to keep it valid.
Not always. A price far below the rest can mean weak treatment, missing coverage, or hidden fees later. Compare what each quote actually includes, not just the final number.
