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How to Do a Thorough Termite Inspection

Mar 4

How to Do a Thorough Termite Inspection

Termites are one of those problems you don’t want to ignore. They work quietly behind the scenes, causing damage long before you notice them. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to catch issues early or just want peace of mind, doing your own termite inspection can be a smart move. Here’s how to do it thoroughly, so nothing gets overlooked.

Start Outside — The Foundation Check

Most termite trouble starts outside, especially near your home’s foundation. Walk around your property and look closely at areas where wood touches the soil. Pay attention to:

  • Mud tubes climbing walls or foundation surfaces

  • Cracks in the foundation or walls where termites could enter

  • Discarded wings or termite swarmers near windows and doors

  • Soft or damaged wood on decks, fences, and other structures close to your home

Even if you don’t see anything obvious, don’t assume you’re in the clear. Termites are masters at hiding.

Crawl Spaces and Basements — Hidden Hotspots

If your home has a crawl space or basement, this is prime termite territory. These areas are often dark, damp, and full of wood — all things termites love.

  • Bring a good flashlight and a screwdriver.

  • Look for termite droppings, also called frass — they look like tiny wood pellets.

  • Check for wood that’s soft, hollow, or easily punctured when tapped with a screwdriver.

These spaces are easy to skip because they’re inconvenient, but they’re often where termite issues begin.

Inside the Home — Walls, Windows, and Floors

Once inside, focus on areas where wood is exposed — baseboards, window frames, door frames, and floors.

  • Tap on wood surfaces and listen for hollow sounds.

  • Look for bubbling or uneven paint, which can sometimes be a sign of termite tunnels underneath.

  • Check for tiny pinholes in drywall or plaster where termites might have pushed through.

Even if the damage isn’t obvious, termites could still be hiding within the walls, so pay attention to subtle changes in your home.

Don’t Forget the Attic

While termites usually work from the ground up, some species can reach the attic through walls or even roof connections.

  • Inspect wood beams and rafters for any signs of chewing, tunnels, or droppings.

  • If your attic has cardboard boxes or old wood stored up there, check them too — termites aren’t picky.

When to Call the Pros

A DIY inspection can give you a solid sense of your home’s condition, but it’s not foolproof. Termites are experts at staying out of sight, especially behind walls and under floors. If you see any signs of damage, or just want the peace of mind that comes with a professional eye, it’s worth calling in a licensed inspector.

At Attack Pest Control, we know exactly where to look and how to catch termite activity early — saving homeowners thousands in repairs. Schedule your inspection today at https://www.attack-pestcontrol.com/.

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