How to Read a Termite Inspection Report Like a Pro
- Jameson Elam
- Aug 26
- 4 min read
About the Author: Jameson Elam is the owner and operator of Good Sense Termite, serving Alameda, Santa Clara, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz counties. With over 14 years of hands-on experience in the termite control industry, Jameson specializes in thorough inspections, accurate diagnostics, and long-term solutions tailored to California homes. His deep knowledge of local termite behavior and building structures has made Good Sense Termite a trusted name for homeowners and real estate professionals alike.
Why Your Termite Inspection Report Matters
A termite inspection report isn’t just a stack of papers—it’s a roadmap to your home’s health and safety. In California, where subterranean and drywood termites are both active threats, these reports are often required in real estate transactions and can be the deciding factor in whether a deal moves forward. Even if you’re not selling, understanding your report helps you catch risks early and avoid expensive repairs later.
Too often, homeowners glance at their report and miss key details. The report tells you:
What type of termites are present
How severe the infestation is
Which areas of your home are at risk
What treatments are recommended, and how urgent they are
Reading it carefully gives you leverage. You can ask smart questions, negotiate repairs, and make decisions with confidence.
Key Sections of a California Termite Inspection Report
Although report formats vary slightly by company, California reports follow a state-regulated structure (often using the Wood Destroying Pest and Organism Inspection Report, Form 43-M). Here are the sections you’ll usually see:
1. Property Information
Address of the property
Date of inspection
Name of inspector and company license number
Scope of the inspection (full property, limited areas, inaccessible zones)
Why it matters: If areas were inaccessible—such as a locked crawlspace or heavy storage in the garage—those spots may need a follow-up inspection.
2. Findings & Observations
Notes on active termite infestations (mud tubes, live termites, frass, discarded wings)
Evidence of past infestations (old damage, sealed drill holes from treatments)
Other conditions that support infestations (moisture, leaks, earth-to-wood contact)
Pro Tip: Don’t ignore mentions of “evidence of past infestation.” That can mean the house was treated before, but you’ll want to confirm if warranties are still valid.
3. Type of Termites Detected
Subterranean Termites: Live in soil, enter through foundations, mud tubes, or plumbing penetrations
Drywood Termites: Nest inside dry wood like attic rafters, trim, or framing
Dampwood Termites (less common): Attracted to very wet wood, sometimes in coastal areas
Why it matters: Treatment methods differ. Subterranean infestations often require soil treatments or bait systems, while drywood termites may need localized treatments or fumigation.
4. Damage Assessment
Specific areas where wood has been compromised
Severity ranking (cosmetic vs structural)
Notes on whether repairs are needed immediately
Pro Tip: Reports may recommend “further inspection by a licensed contractor” when damage is extensive. This ensures safety and accurate repair estimates.
5. Recommendations & Treatment Plan
Suggested treatments (localized spot treatment, fumigation, soil trenching, bait stations, preventive treatments)
Optional warranties or service plans
Maintenance suggestions (fix leaks, remove wood-to-soil contact, ventilate crawlspaces)
Pro Tip: Compare warranties carefully. Some cover only the treated area, while others cover the whole structure.
Terms and Symbols You Should Know
Active Infestation: Termites are currently present and feeding
Evidence of Activity: Mud tubes, frass (termite droppings), hollow wood, discarded wings
Section 1 Items: Active infestations or conditions causing active damage. These require immediate action.
Section 2 Items: Conditions that could lead to infestations (like leaks, earth-to-wood contact, missing caulking). Not urgent yet, but should be corrected.
Unknown/Obstructed Areas: Zones the inspector could not check (heavy storage, sealed walls). These may require follow-up.
How to Make Decisions Based on Your Report
Prioritize Section 1 Items Treat immediately to stop active infestations Plan for repairs in damaged areas
Stay Ahead of Section 2 Items Fix moisture issues, leaks, or grading problems before they attract termites Removing risks now saves you from higher costs later
Compare Treatment Options Localized treatments: Best for small, isolated infestations Fumigation: Effective for widespread drywood infestations Soil treatments or baiting systems: Best for subterranean infestations Preventive services: Help reduce the chance of reinfestation
Use Photos to Your Advantage Most modern reports include photos or diagrams. These help you visualize the exact problem areas, making it easier to prioritize repairs.
Why Professional Interpretation Matters
Even if you’re detail-oriented, termite reports are technical. Misunderstanding them can lead to bad decisions—like skipping treatment for a “minor” issue that turns into a structural problem.
At Good Sense Termite, our licensed inspectors:
Walk you through each section in plain English
Point out conditions unique to Bay Area homes (like planter boxes against siding or coastal moisture issues)
Provide treatment and warranty plans suited to your home’s exact risks
With over 14 years in the industry, we know how to separate real threats from minor notations—and we make sure you understand the difference before you spend a dollar on treatment.
FAQ: Reading Termite Inspection Reports
Do all reports look the same?
No. Formats vary, but all California reports must include property info, findings, Section 1 and 2 items, and recommendations.
Do I need to treat Section 2 items right away?
Not always. But fixing those issues early often prevents bigger infestations later.
What if the report only shows evidence of past treatment?
Ask whether there’s an active warranty. If not, consider preventive treatment.
Can I get a second opinion?
Yes. If you’re buying a home or facing major repairs, a second inspection is smart.
Are termite reports required in real estate transactions?
In California, lenders often require a clearance before funding, especially for VA loans.
Take the Guesswork Out of Termite Reports
Your inspection report is more than paperwork—it’s a snapshot of your home’s health. Knowing how to read it lets you act with confidence, whether you’re buying, selling, or just maintaining your property.
At Good Sense Termite, we offer free inspections and walk you through the results so you don’t miss a thing. Our licensed inspectors explain your report, answer your questions, and give you treatment and warranty options that fit your needs.
Protecting your home isn’t complicated. It’s just good sense.
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