Termites in Crawl Spaces: San Jose’s Most Overlooked Infestation Zone
- Good Sense Termite
- Jun 17
- 2 min read
Why Crawl Spaces Are a Termite Haven in San Jose
Crawl spaces may be out of sight—but for termites, they’re prime real estate. These dark, damp, and often-ignored areas provide the perfect conditions for subterranean termites to thrive. In San Jose, where older homes and clay-rich soils are common, crawl space infestations are more frequent than most homeowners realize.
Why Crawl Spaces Go Unchecked
Homeowners rarely enter them
DIY inspections usually skip this area
Termite activity is hidden behind wood, insulation, or vapor barriers
Local moisture levels from fog or rain increase risk
Signs of Termites in Your Crawl Space
Warning Sign | What It Means |
Active subterranean termites traveling from soil to wood | |
Termite feeding inside wooden supports | |
Possible drywood termite presence | |
Damp or musty odors | Encouraging conditions for colonies |
Loose or sinking floors above | Long-term damage from undetected termites |
What a Local Crawl Space Inspection Includes
At Good Sense Termite, our inspectors perform a thorough crawl space check including:
Moisture meter readings
Flashlight + mirror inspection in tight corners
Checking for mud tubes and frass
Sounding tools for hollow wood
Photos and reports for homeowner records
📌 We often find termites in crawl spaces even when the rest of the home seems clear.
Things to Know:
Termites often start in crawl spaces before spreading
San Jose’s clay soil and mild winters promote subterranean colonies
Most DIY termite checks miss crawl spaces entirely
A professional inspection includes the crawl space—even tight areas
Mud tubes, rotted wood, and frass are key crawl space warning signs
Older homes are at higher risk due to unsealed crawl space access
Annual inspections are critical in neighborhoods with known infestations
FAQ
Q: Do all San Jose homes have crawl spaces?
A: Not all, but many older single-story homes and homes built before the 1980s in San Jose do. These are especially common in Willow Glen, Alum Rock, and Rose Garden.
Q: Are crawl spaces more at risk for termites?
A: Yes. Termites prefer moisture and dark, undisturbed environments—exactly what crawl spaces provide.
Q: Can I inspect my crawl space myself?
A: You can look for surface signs, but a pro can safely enter and assess hidden areas with specialized tools.
Q: How often should I have my crawl space inspected?
A: At least once a year—especially during termite season in the Bay Area (March–October).
Get a Crawl Space Termite Check—Before It’s Too Late
Good Sense Termite specializes in crawl space inspections in San Jose and surrounding counties. We catch what others miss—because what’s under your home matters.
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