MetroWest Pest Control · MetroWest Massachusetts
MetroWest Homeowner Field Guide: Documenting Possible Termite Activity
Version 2026-08-06 · metrowestpestcontrol.com
This guide helps you record possible termite evidence before it is disturbed. It does not confirm termite activity, identify a species, evaluate a structure, or recommend any product.
Signs described here may also result from moisture, rot, construction conditions, or other insects.
1. Preserve the evidence
Photograph suspected wings, insects, tubes, or wood changes before cleaning or disturbing the area. Avoid opening finished walls or damaging structural materials.
Notes
2. Swarmers and wings
- Insects seen flying
- Insects seen crawling
- Wings found without insects
- Window or door location
- Basement or first-floor location
- Indoors or outdoors
- Date and weather conditions
- Photograph available
Notes
3. Mud-like tubes or material
- Foundation wall
- Sill area
- Basement
- Crawlspace
- Garage
- Exterior siding
- Deck connection
- Structural wood
- Approximate length
- Appears old or active
Notes
4. Wood and surface changes
- Blistering
- Softness
- Hollow sound
- Layered damage
- Moisture staining
- Swelling
- Cracking
- Unknown debris
These signs may also result from moisture, rot, construction conditions, or other insects.
Notes
5. Moisture and structural conditions
- Plumbing leak
- Drainage problem
- Gutter overflow
- Soil contact
- Wood debris
- Damp basement
- Crawlspace moisture
- Prior water damage
Notes
6. Prior history
- Previous inspection
- Previous treatment
- Warranty documents
- Renovation
- Structural repair
- Neighboring termite activity
Notes
7. When inspection is appropriate
- Indoor swarmers
- Recurring wings
- Tubes
- Unexplained wood damage
- Structural concern
- Inability to distinguish termites from ants
- Prior termite history
Notes
Want a professional opinion?
Share the evidence and locations you documented and request a termite inspection.
Request a Termite Inspection: metrowestpestcontrol.com/request-help