It is not uncommon for most home inspectors to offer their opinion on the structural condition of the home as part of their report. However, the most commonly accepted inspection standards do not require a home inspector to identify wood destroying insect activity (i.e. termites, carpenter ants, etc). Because wood destroying insects (WDI) can cause deterioration of structural items, many buyers are now hiring qualified home inspectors to check for these insects during the home inspection.

During the inspection, the inspector will examine for:

1. Termite mud tunnels which can allow termites to travel from one location to another.
2. Swarming termites (winged termites) which indicates a large and mature colony near the home.
3. Larger black ants which could be an indication of carpenter ants.
4. Concentrations of small holes indicating powder post beetle activity.
5. Perfectly round holes (about the size of a nickel) in soffits, fascias, and trim which could indicate carpenter bee activity.
6. Any damage to the home’s wooden structural components which could compromise the overall structural condition of the home.”

Conducting a termite inspection/WDI is beyond the scope of the standard home inspection and therefore is an optional service and may be an additional fee. Contact your Metopolitan Home Inspedction Service for additional information.