VA Pest Inspetion (NPMA-33)

Subterranean termites in Michigan are the most damaging insects of wood. Their presence is hard to notice, and damage usually is found before the termites are seen. Prevent infestations because if they occur, they will almost always need a professional pest inspector.

Generally, the first sign of infestation is the presence of swarming termites on the window or near indoor light. If they are found inside the house, it almost always means that they have infested. Other signs that may be found are termite wings on window sills or in cobwebs, and shelter tubes, which are tunnels constructed by the termites from soil or woodand debris. Usually, wood damage is not found at first, but when it is found, it definitely reveals a termite infestation. Anywhere wood touches soil is a possible entry into a home for termites. Examine wood which sounds dull or hollow when struck by a screwdriver or hammer. Inspect suspected areas with a sharp, pointed tool, such as an ice pick, to find termite galleries or their damage. If you suspect infestation call for pest inspector for termite inspection or WDO inspection.

Check the foundation of the house, garage and other buildings for shelter tubes coming from the soil. Look closely around porches, connecting patios, sidewalks, areas near kitchens and bathrooms, and hard-to-see places. Check window and door frames, and where utility services enter the house for termite infestation or wood decay. Also, look behind shrubbery and plants near walls. Pay special attention to areas where earth and wood meet, such as fences, stair carriages and trellises. Open and check any exterior electrical meter or fuse box set into the wall, a common point of infestation.

Carefully check all doors, window facings, baseboards, and hardwood flooring. Discoloration or stains on walls or ceilings may mean that water is leaking and can decay wood, and this can aid termite infestation. It is very important to inspect where plumbing and utility pipes enter the foundation and flooring. Also, examine the attic for shelter tubes, water leakage, and wood damage. 

Many termite problems can be prevented. The most important thing to do is to deny termites access to food (wood), moisture and shelter. Follow these suggestions:

• contact Innovative Home Inspection to inspect for Wood Destroying Pest, Termites, Insects;
• have at least a 2-inch clearance between the house and planter boxes, or soil-filled porches;  
• eliminate all wood-to-soil contact, such, fence posts, stair casings and door facings (they can be put on masonry blocks or on treated wood);
• separate shrubbery from the house to help make it easier to inspect the foundation line;
• use wolmanized wood (pressure-treated wood) so that rain will not rot it;
• seal openings through the foundation;
• remove wood scraps and stumps from around the foundation;
• do not store fire wood in garage or next to structure;
• remove all wood debris from crawlspace and away from structure;
• have at least 12 to 18 inches of clearance between floor beams and the soil underneath.