Guarantees
Ask the right questions and discover what a Termite Company's guarantee really covers.
Your guarantee options should be laid out in plain language and in writing before signing up. Read the contract, ask questions if your not sure about a point. What your Termite Company will do for you should termites return after treatment is not negotiable after the contract is signed or after termites show up again.
Most people understand how much they would collect on an insurance policy death benefit, but only a small percentage of homeowners understand what liability their Termite Company has should termites return after treatment. Don't be like them.
There are 3 basic types of guarantees.
Issued if you decided to have a spot, or partial treatment done.
Or when your home can not be properly treated with a standard Chemical Barrier.
A good alternative treatment would be a Baiting System Treatment. In many cases using bait would allow you to receive a proper treatment and qualify for a renewable guarantee.
(Covers retreatment only should termites return.)
If active termites are found after your treatment and while your guarantee is in force you don't pay an extra dime for additional treatment.
Generally less expensive. Adequate protection for some homes. Most homes, when properly treated and receive good annual inspections are unlikely to have major termite damage.
If your home has some minor conditions that are conducive to termite infestation, a retreat guarantee is most likely all you'll get until the problems are corrected.
If active termites are found after treatment your Termite Company would do any treatments necessary to stop the infestation. Then your company would have any damages (up to a certain pre-agreed on amount) repaired and made like new.
Deluxe, more expensive but does have the best insurance coverage. In order to qualify for this coverage a home would have to have no conditions that were conducive to termites. (See chart)
Most home owners assume they have this kind of protection, but a good number actually don't.
Read the Contract. Ask for a contract to read over.
What your Termite Company does after the treatment depends on the deal made up front. Keep in mind that most Termite Companies will negotiate.
Will they fix damage if you get termites? You need to find out about this before you sign a contact.
How much will my Contract Renewal cost each year?
Will I have to pay EXTRA DEDUCTIBLE CHARGES if there is a claim? You need to find out before you sign a contract.
Will someone come to my house and make a physical inspection at least once per year? Make sure you give your home and work phone numbers so that appointments can be made to do your yearly renewal inspection. You might miss your inspection even though your Termite Company is willing.
