A termite inspection is a visual examination by a licensed professional to check for signs of wood-destroying insects and related damage. This assessment covers the entire structure, from the foundation to the roof, looking for evidence like mud tubes, damaged wood, or discarded wings. A comprehensive inspection generally takes between 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the home’s size and complexity.
Standard Inspection Duration
The duration of a termite inspection is closely related to the home’s square footage and the presence of additional structures. For standard residential properties under 1,500 square feet, the inspection may take 30 minutes to one hour. Larger homes, particularly those exceeding 3,000 square feet, often require closer to two hours for a thorough examination.
Inspections conducted for real estate transactions, often called Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) reports, follow the same procedure as a standard annual check. While the core inspection actions are consistent, the need for formal documentation required by lenders can slightly extend the time spent on-site. Regardless of the purpose, the inspector must systematically evaluate the property to ensure an accurate assessment of any current or past termite activity.
Step-by-Step Inspection Process
The inspection begins with an examination of the exterior perimeter. The inspector circles the home, focusing on the foundation and soil lines for evidence of subterranean termite activity, such as mud tubes. They also check wooden elements like eaves, decks, and fences for blistered paint or soft spots that may indicate damage from drywood termites.
After the exterior is complete, the focus shifts to the interior. The inspector systematically moves through each room, paying attention to areas where utilities enter the home, like under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms. Plumbing lines are common entry points termites use to bypass concrete barriers. The inspector taps on baseboards, window sills, and door casings, listening for hollow sounds that suggest wood has been eaten out.
The final stage involves checking limited access areas, where termites frequently thrive unseen. This includes the attic and any crawl space beneath the home. The professional uses tools like flashlights and moisture meters to identify areas of high humidity that attract termites, carefully examining beams and structural wood for signs of activity or damage.
Variables Affecting Inspection Time
The standard time frame can be altered by the structural complexity and condition of the property. Homes with multiple additions, unusual layouts, or numerous detached structures, like sheds and decking, require a longer time to cover every area. Existing damage or a suspected infestation will also extend the duration, requiring a more detailed investigation to map the extent of the issue.
Accessibility issues are a common factor that causes delays when inspectors cannot easily reach certain areas. Cluttered storage in garages, locked rooms, or difficult crawl spaces necessitate extra time for the inspector to gain access. Homeowners can help keep the inspection on schedule by ensuring all access points, including attic hatches and utility areas, are clear before the inspector arrives.