What to Expect During a Professional Termite Inspection

The average homeowner spends around $6,000 on home repairs and maintenance each year according to CNBC. However, these costs can exponentially increase if you leave issues unchecked.

This is especially true for termite infestations. Finding termites in your home can be overwhelming, but a professional inspection can uncover hidden damage before it gets worse. Inspectors look for key warning signs and use specialized tools to detect activity behind walls and under floors.

Understanding what to expect during a termite inspection will help ensure everything goes smoothly. Below, we’ll explore the key steps to anticipate during your inspection in Arizona.

Visual Inspection of Key Areas

The inspector will start by looking at areas where termites are most likely to be found. They check the foundation and wooden structures both inside and outside the property.

Any cracks or moisture damage can signal a potential problem. Basements, crawl spaces, and wooden decks often attract termites due to their conditions. If any concerns are found, further examination may be needed during your termite treatment in Phoenix.

Checking for Wood Damage

Termites eat through wood from the inside out, making damage hard to see. The inspector taps on wooden surfaces to listen for hollow sounds, which can indicate hidden activity. Doors and baseboards are common spots where damage appears first.

They may also probe soft or weakened wood to determine how deep the issue goes. Catching the damage early can prevent a full-blown termite infestation.

Looking for Mud Tubes and Droppings

Termites leave behind clear evidence of their presence:

• Mud tubes along walls and foundations
• Piles of droppings resembling sawdust
• Discarded wings near windows or doors
• Hollow or damaged wood in hidden areas

These clues help the inspector confirm if termites are active in the home. If signs of termites appear, a treatment plan will be necessary.

Inspecting Moisture-Prone Spots

Termites thrive in damp environments, making moisture control an important part of the inspection. The inspector focuses on areas where water leaks or humidity levels are high. Common trouble spots include:

• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Basements
• Crawl spaces

If excess moisture is found, recommendations will be made to reduce the risk. Keeping these areas dry can make the home less attractive to termites, allowing you to prevent expensive repairs in the future. They’ll also notify you of any mold growth.

Assessing Structural Weaknesses

A pest control expert will look for structural problems that make a home more vulnerable. They check for:

• Sagging floors
• Warped wood
• Weak support beams

If termites have caused serious damage, repairs may be necessary. Homeowners are advised on the best course of action to strengthen affected areas. Spotting these issues early can prevent expensive repairs later.

Using Specialized Detection Tools

In some cases, tools are used to detect hidden termite activity:

• Moisture meters to check for damp conditions
• Thermal imaging cameras to spot temperature changes
• Sound detection devices to hear termite movement
• Borescopes to look inside walls and tight spaces

These methods help find problems that aren’t visible during a basic inspection. If termites are confirmed, a termite control company will discuss treatment options.

Examining Crawl Spaces and Attics

Inspectors thoroughly check crawl spaces and attics for any termite activity. These areas are dark and often overlooked, making them prime spots for infestations. Wood framing and stored items may show damage or droppings.

If termites are found in these spaces, the infestation may be more widespread. Proper treatment can stop the problem before it reaches other parts of the home.

Identifying Active or Past Infestations

Finding evidence of past or ongoing termite problems can determine the next steps. Inspectors look for key indicators:

• Old mud tubes that are no longer active
• Wood that has been previously treated for termites
• Repairs made to areas that were damaged in the past
• Signs of ongoing termite activity in new locations

If there’s a history of termite problems, continued monitoring may be needed. A professional extermination company can suggest long-term prevention strategies.

Reviewing Nearby Wood and Soil Contact

The inspector checks how close wood structures are to soil since direct contact increases risk. Wooden fences and mulch can create pathways for termites to enter a home.

If these materials are too close to the foundation, they might recommend adjustments. Simple changes like lifting wood off the ground or creating barriers can reduce the risk. Making these improvements early can help prevent future infestations.

Providing a Detailed Inspection Report

Once the inspection is complete, a full report is provided. This includes:

• Findings
• Potential risks
• Any necessary treatments

The report also highlights any repairs that should be made to protect the home. If termites are found, recommendations for treatment will be included. Homeowners can then decide on the best approach to keep their property termite-free.

Finding the Right Arizona Pest Control Service

Hiring the right pest control service in Arizona takes more than a quick online search. A strong reputation and proven experience matter, especially for projects involving structural work or custom designs.

Checking reviews and verifying licenses can help narrow down the best options. 

A reputable service should be transparent about their process and willing to provide a clear contract before any work begins. Without these steps, unexpected costs or delays can become a problem.

Consistent communication is another sign of a reliable professional. They should:

• Answer questions
• Offer realistic timelines
• Keep you updated throughout the project

Comparing multiple bids also helps, but price alone shouldn’t determine your decision. The lowest quote may come with poor-quality materials or rushed labor, leading to bigger issues later. Think quality over cost and ask about termiticides which is recommended to use. A company with transparency will always have a few options for termiticides for the particular type of termite infestation and they will make recommendations, so you can choose with piece of mind.

The best way to avoid problems is to work with a pest control company who understands Arizona’s climate and building regulations. Local experience can make a big difference in the quality and longevity of the work.

Never Neglect a Termite Inspection

A single termite inspection can save you plenty of time and money in the future. As long as you find a reputable professional, it’s well worth the investment.

Scorpion King Exterminating brings over 40 years of experience in Arizona pest control, specializing in scorpion and termite treatment. With thousands of satisfied customers, we offer proven results using entomologist-backed methods. You can get an estimate today to learn more about how we can help.