Termite Inspection: What to Expect

A termite inspection is one of the most important things a homeowner in central Missouri can do — whether you have seen signs of termites or simply want peace of mind. The inspection is the foundation of any effective termite program, and knowing what to expect can help you prepare and get the most out of the visit.

What a Termite Inspection Involves

A professional termite inspection is a thorough visual and physical examination of your home — inside and out — looking for signs of active termite activity, past damage, and conditions that make your home vulnerable. It is not a quick walkthrough. A thorough inspection of an average home typically takes 45 minutes to over an hour.

Exterior Inspection

The technician begins outside, examining the foundation perimeter for mud tubes, damaged wood, and conducive conditions. Specific areas of focus include:

• Foundation walls for mud tubes or termite entry points
• Wood siding, trim, and structural elements that contact or are near soil
• Deck posts, steps, and any wood-to-ground contact points
• Wood mulch beds directly against the foundation
• Firewood or lumber stored near the structure
• Tree stumps or dead wood in the yard near the home

Interior Inspection — Basement and Crawlspace

This is often where the most important findings occur. The technician will access your basement or crawlspace and inspect:

• Foundation walls and sill plates for mud tubes
• Floor joists and subfloor for damage or hollow wood
• Support beams and posts for structural damage
• Moisture levels — high moisture attracts termites
• Vapor barrier condition in crawlspaces

A flashlight and often a probe or screwdriver are used to tap and test wood for hollowness or soft spots that indicate feeding activity.

Interior Inspection — Living Areas

The technician will check accessible areas of the ground floor, including:

• Window and door frames for damage or warping
• Expansion joints and areas where flooring meets walls
• Any visible wood structural elements
• Areas near plumbing where moisture may be elevated
• Garage walls and framing near the floor slab

How to Prepare for Your Inspection

A few things you can do before the technician arrives will help ensure a thorough inspection:

• Clear access to the crawlspace or basement hatch
• Move boxes or stored items away from foundation walls in the basement
• Ensure the garage is accessible
• Note any areas where you have seen signs — mud tubes, wings, hollow wood — so you can point the technician directly to them
• Have records of any previous termite treatment available if applicable

What the Technician Will Tell You

After the inspection, the technician will give you a clear summary of findings, which may include:

• Whether active termite activity was found
• Whether evidence of past (inactive) activity is present
• Any conditions that make your home conducive to termites — wood-to-soil contact, moisture problems, poor drainage
• A recommended treatment plan with options and pricing, if treatment is warranted

If no activity is found, the technician should still note any conducive conditions and recommend corrective actions to reduce your risk.

How Often Should You Get an Inspection?

For most Missouri homes, an annual inspection is recommended. Homes with prior termite history, high moisture conditions, or significant wood-to-soil contact may benefit from inspections every six months. New construction with pre-treat warranties typically require annual inspections to maintain the warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be home for the inspection? It is best if you are home so you can answer questions about the property history and be present to hear the technician's findings directly. However, if access is provided to all areas, some inspections can be completed without the homeowner present.

Will the technician go into my attic? Attic inspections are not standard for subterranean termites, as their activity typically stays in the lower portions of the structure where wood contacts soil. However, drywood termite inspections may include the attic.

What if activity is found? The technician will recommend a treatment plan. See our articles on termite treatment types and termite treatment costs in Missouri to understand your options before committing.