When you schedule your home inspection with Sonoran Property Inspections, we will ask if you want a separate termite inspection done on the home, and we will set that up for you. We thought we would give you a little information about termites – oh, those almost invisible little subterranean pests! In the Phoenix area they are more of a threat than in the Prescott area. Either way, we encourage you to get this add-on inspection done just so you know what you are dealing with.
Termites are considered Arizona’s number one urban pest. As a homeowner, you may encounter termites at sometime or other. If you find termites in your home, it’s important not to panic. These small animals take a very long time, often years before structural damage is present in the home.Therefore, the information provided here is to enable you to make intelligent decisions regarding termite management options. It’s important to contact several pest management professional (PMP’s) for estimates. If you already have a pest control service you may want to contact them for an estimate. Attempting to control termites on your own is not recommended.
Termites are small animals found primarily in the tropical regions of the world, where they play a role in the recycling wood and other cellulose-based materials. Termites are in a group of insects, which alone comprise the order Isoptera (iso-ptera = “equal-winged”). They are so named because the primary reproductive adults usually referred to as “swarmers”, have two pairs of equal length wings. There are currently approximately 2,761 named termite species in 282 genera worldwide. About 45 species occur in the continental United States with nearly 30 causing damage to wood and wood products. At least seventeen species of termites occur in Arizona, but only three species are considered to be of any significant economical importance.
In Arizona, dampwood and drywood termites are not wide spread problems but can be under certain conditions. Subterranean termites on the other hand are
considered one of our major urban pests.
Signs of Infestation
Hire a qualified InterNACHI inspector to inspect for termites or other wood-destroying organisms. 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 wood and 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. 
Control
Control measures include reducing the potential infestation, preventing termite entry, and applying chemicals for remedial treatment. We will not get into treatment options here, but your pest control company will help you with your options. So when you need a home inspection, don’t forget to get the termite inspection done at the same time. We will look for obvious signs, but the specialists will do a more thorough inspection and issue you a separate report and treatment options if they are needed.
Inspection
Inspect thoroughly to determine if there is an infestation, damage, and/or conditions that could invite a termite attack, or the need for remedial control measures. The tools and equipment needed for an inspection include a flashlight, ice pick or sharp-pointed screwdriver, ladder, and protective clothing. Always hire an InterNACHI inspector for your inspection needs, as they are trained by the highest standards in the inspection industry. As always, let us know if we can help!
