A termite inspection, otherwise known as a wood destroying pest or organism inspection, is an inspection in which a termite inspector inspects all visible and accessible areas around your home and searches for evidence of damage or an infestation. Termite inspectors will also search for areas that are conducive to future infestation. In this inspection both the interior and exterior of the home are inspected. 

Termites are often reclusive and can be difficult to spot. A professional termite inspector is often needed in order to definitively determine the presence of a termite infestation and rule out other possible pests or organisms.

Damage Prone Areas

As the name suggests, a termite inspection will typically include searching for any signs of termites or wood destroying organisms as well as any environments conducive to future structural damage. Since these organisms often hide in tiny cracks or crevices, there is a good chance that you may not be able to see them upon looking for them. Termite inspectors are trained to find evidence of termites and will inspect areas in order to get a complete picture of the home’s damage or vulnerabilities. 

Areas typically more vulnerable to damage include:

• Crawl spaces
• Under the home
• Eaves under gutters
• Trellises attached to homes
• Leaky toilets
• Attics
  

Left untreated, termite or wood-destroying organisms can multiply at an exponential rate within a few months. In order to completely eradicate a termite infestation or wood-destroying organism infestation a professional extermination is needed. Only a licensed Pest control company can guarantee treatment and eradication. 

What Qualifies as a Wood Destroying Organism?

Termites and wood destroying organisms can be classified as any organism which contributes to wood decay. In order to determine the presence of these wood destroying organisms, termite inspectors will check your home for any signs of past, present, or possible future structural damage that may be caused by wood destroying pests or organisms.

When checking for termites or wood destroying organisms termite inspectors will often find evidence left from many different pests and organisms. Some of the main pests and organisms that are typically found include:

• Wood decaying fungi
• Dry rot infection
• Dry wood termites
• Subterranean termites
• Wood Burrowing Beetles
• Carpenter ants
  
• Carpenter bees

While it may be difficult to determine how and exactly when a termite or wood destroying organism infestation began, the more time that passes, the more damage can be done to your home. Preventing wood destroying organisms and termites is vital to protecting your home from future damage.

How Does a Termite Inspector Check for Damage or Vulnerabilities?

Some of the tasks performed for this inspection include running the plumbing to check for leaks as well as inspecting around windows and door frames for any cracks or crevices. A termite inspector will often use a termite inspection probe to poke weak looking areas around your home to check for damage. 

Many times, damage to the home will not only include present damage; it will also include areas that display signs of future damage. This is why a termite inspection is necessary when buying or selling a home. 

Some tips to prepare your home, or client’s home for a complete inspection include:

1. Securing all animals that may be uncomfortable with strangers.
2. Providing inspectors with access to the entire exterior of your home, including decks, patios, and outbuildings.
3. Clearing approximately 2’ around the interior perimeter of the garage to allow inspectors access to the entire facility. Built-in storage containers do not need to be removed.
4. Opening all window coverings (particularly blinds)
5. Providing access to every room, including closets and storage areas.
6. Making sure the sub-area and attic access points are located and accessible.
7. Have all utilities on; water, electric, and gas

A termite inspection typically takes place for 30 minutes or up to 2 hours depending on the size of the home and the nature of the findings. The next business day you will  receive a written report with photos and estimates for repair.

Noticing termites or wood-damage around your home can be frightening. Here at Twin, we understand how inconvenient termites or wood destroying organisms can be. This is why we work diligently to prevent, detect, and eliminate termites or wood destroying organisms before they become an issue. If you suspect your home may have a termite or wood destroying organism infestation, contact us today! We are always ready to help.