An annual inspection of your customers’ attics not only provides you a snapshot of potential pest problems, it also provides the opportunity to determine if an attic cap or attic restoration service featuring TAP(R) Pest Control Insulation is warranted. Here are some tips for a successful annual attic inspection:
Scheduling the Inspection
It is best to contact the homeowner to schedule an appointment to inspect the attic. However, if you have a routine appointment scheduled, it is appropriate to add the attic inspection as a comprehensive and preventative approach to protecting their home(s). The purpose of inspecting the attic is to determine four important pieces of information:
- The condition of the insulation and/or existence of insects or vermin
- The type of insulation currently in place if any
- The amount of insulation in place
Before arriving for the inspection appointment, consider having the following:
- Ladder or step ladder if the attic opening does not have pull-down stair access
- A bump hat to protect your head when walking/crawling through the attic
- A flashlight
- A calculator for calculating the r-value of existing insulation and the amount of TAP(R) Pest Control Insulation needed to meet the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) R-value recommendations for your state.
- Smart phone or table for taking photos and video to share with the homeowner
Conducting the Inspection
Even though your purpose is to inspect the attic, there are three areas in total that need to be looked at for a thorough inspection:
- The perimeter of the home’s structure
- The living spaces of the home
- The attic itself
The perimeter of the home can provide clues to what may or may not be happening in the attic. Be sure to determine the type of ventilation present in the attic by looking for ridge or gable vents or soffit and continuous soffit vents. It is important that the attic breathes as it prevents moisture buildup and mold from appearing. Also, look for any evidence of wildlife entry points and low hanging branches that cover or touch the home,
The living spaces of the home can help determine if there are any moisture leaks or cracks in the ceiling that can lend itself to pest penetration. Pay close attention to the ceiling around any recessed lights, chimneys, or exposed plumbing.
The attic itself is your best clue. Insects and other uninvited pests tend to enter the home through the attic. Look for signs of pest presence including nesting, tunneling, and damaged wiring. If you can immediately see the rafters above the insulation, you know instantly that the home is under insulated. This makes the home an ideal candidate for TAP® Pest Control Insulation. Remember, notate the type(s) of ventilation in place and snap a few photos or videos to share with the homeowner. Many residents do not regularly access their own attic space.
Following Up on the Inspection
Once the attic inspection has concluded, complete a graph of the home. Notate the square footage, location of heat-producing devices (i.e., chimney, attic fans, recessed lighting, HVAC), type of insulation, and attic access points. This will allow you to formulate any recommendations to make.
Now, the fun part begins.
You now have the opportunity to:
- Share that the customer’s attic is in optimal condition and well insulated but could benefit from an attic cap to add a permanent layer of pest protection.
- Share that the customer’s attic is under insulated and under performing. This situation can easily be resolved with an attic cap that adds a permanent layer of pest protection and increases the home’s thermal envelope.
- Share that there is damaged or soiled insulation or pest presence indicating the need for a partial or whole attic restoration.
During this stage, incorporate the images/video you took while in the attic. It is also wise to utilize the TAP® Sales Tools (i.e., TAP® Thermal Demo Unit, TAP® Acoustic Sound Bucket, TAP® Demo Tube, TAP® Sales Presentation Folder) and any sales collateral you might share.
When talking with a homeowner, remember to avoid typical pest control vernacular. This may confuse or complicate understanding. Simply highlight the benefits TAP® Pest Control Insulation provides to the structure of the home, the homeowner’s health, and their home’s comfort. Don’t forget to share that TAP® is backed by a limited, lifetime warranty. Remember, ask for their business as part of a comprehensive pest management program.
Final Thoughts on the Annual Attic Inspection
In conclusion, adding a simple inspection of your customer’s attic can provide opportunity to present your TAP® Pest Control Insulation service offering and bring you success as their preferred pest management professional. Contact us if you have any questions or would like to schedule sales training for you and your colleagues.