A termite inspection is a visual inspection of the readily accessible areas of a home for evidence of wood-destroying insects (WDI). In some States, it will also cover wood-destroying organisms (WDO) and conducive conditions. The inspector will visually inspect the entire interior of a home (including accessing and entering any sub-space such as basements and crawlspaces) and exterior of the property. In areas where Drywood termites are prevalent, and in houses where there are no sub-areas, the attic may also be accessed and inspected. After the inspection has been performed, the findings are reported on the applicable/appropriate form.


            Yes, termites have been found throughout the United States, even in Alaska! Cold weather does not kill them off; rather it slows them down or causes them to go into a hibernation state. As a matter of fact, it has been reported that 1 out of every 15 houses in the Chicago area have termite infestations.


             The termite inspection is actually an inspection for wood-destroying insects and organisms. The inspector is also looking for ants, bugs and fungus. Sometimes, in areas where Drywood termites are prevalent, and in houses where there are no sub-areas, the attic may also be accessed and inspected. Inspectors routinely look in the attic area for Drywood termite pellets (fecal matter), which are oblong, vary in color from light gray to very dark brown, and are only 2 to 3 millimeters long. They generally accumulate on surfaces or in spider webs near the eaves area of the attic.

   
             Subterranean termite colonies consist of three different castes--reproductives, workers and soldiers. All of the Subterranean termites are generally creamy white in appearance and are translucent, looking very much in size, shape and color as a grain of rice. The reproductives, or “swarmers,” have a pair of even-sized wings and are often mistaken for flying ants. The workers look similar to the “swarmers,” only they are a little smaller and do not have wings. The soldiers are also similar except for their oversized heads and large, crushing mandibles.

Termite Inspection

What does a termite inspection entail?

Can termites live in colder climates?

Why inspect the attic if termites stay close to the ground?

What do termites look like?