A professional termite inspection is the most effective way to identify hidden damage and active infestations before they become catastrophic. If significant issues are found, consulting a structural restoration expert is the next logical step.
What Happens During an Inspection?
A qualified inspector will examine both the interior and exterior of your home, focusing on areas where termites are most likely to enter or reside.
Visual Examination
Looking for mud tubes, exit holes, and frass in common entry points.
Probing & Sounding
Using tools to check for hollow wood in sill plates and joists.
Key Areas Inspectors Examine
- Foundation & Crawlspace: The most critical area. Inspectors look for mud tubes on foundation walls and damage to sill plates.
- Exterior Perimeter: Checking for wood-to-soil contact, moisture issues, and gaps in siding.
- Attics & Roof Lines: Looking for signs of drywood termites or moisture-related issues.
- Bathrooms & Kitchens: Checking around plumbing penetrations for signs of moisture and activity.
Questions to Ask Your Inspector
When hiring a professional, ensure you get clear answers to the following:
- Did you find any evidence of an active infestation?
- Is the damage I'm seeing old or current?
- Are there any "conducive conditions" (like moisture or wood-to-soil contact) I should address?
- Do you recommend immediate treatment or further structural evaluation by a restoration expert?
The Inspection Report
After the inspection, you should receive a written report (often called a Wood-Destroying Organism or WDO report). This document is essential for home sales and for planning structural repairs. It should include a diagram of the home noting where activity or damage was found.