📋 Step-by-Step
1
Inspect the foundation perimeter at soil level
Walk the entire exterior foundation with a flashlight looking at the soil-to-foundation interface. Look for: mud tubes (pencil-width earthen tunnels running from soil up the concrete). Photograph anything suspicious.
2
Check all wood-to-soil contact points
Any location where wood touches or is near soil is a termite entry risk: deck posts, porch supports, wood siding near grade, door and window frames at soil level, and fence posts attached to the structure. Probe suspect wood with a screwdriver — hollow wood that easily penetrates indicates damage.
3
Inspect the basement/crawl space
Bring a flashlight and screwdriver. Look for mud tubes on piers, joists, subfloor, and foundation walls. Look for wood that appears damaged or hollow. Note any excessive moisture (high moisture attracts subterranean termites).
4
Check exterior wood members
Deck joists, fascia boards, and trim boards are common first entry points. Look for mud tubes on the back sides of boards and any wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
5
Look for swarmer evidence in spring
After warm spring rains, inspect for: piles of equal-length wings near windows or doors (swarmers shed wings immediately after landing); any live winged insects inside the house (a very serious sign requiring immediate professional inspection).
6
Photograph and document everything
If you find anything suspicious: photograph with a coin for scale, note the location, and contact a licensed PCO for professional evaluation. Many pest control companies offer free inspections.
💡 Pro Tips
💡 Subterranean termites need soil contact — any wood touching or embedded in soil is their primary entry point. Correcting wood-to-soil contact is the most effective structural prevention
💡 The crawl space and basement are where most infestations begin — inspect these areas most thoroughly
💡 Spring (March-May) is the optimal inspection season — termite swarmers emerge and mud tube activity is highest after warm rains