Termite inspectors have seen it all—thousands of homes with various pest-related challenges. With that experience comes a unique perspective, one that’s impossible to leave behind when purchasing a home. Here’s what a termite inspector might focus on:

1. Twin Homes

Connected homes present a fumigation dilemma. Both homeowners must cooperate for fumigation to work, as it’s impossible to tent just half of a structure. Without an HOA mandating annual inspections or full-structure termite warranties, one vigilant homeowner might find themselves battling termites while their neighbor does nothing. Unfortunately, even with swarming termites originating from inaccessible locations, you’re at the mercy of your neighbor’s willingness to act.

2. Homes with Fragile Roofs

Clay tile roofs are undeniably stunning and add character to a home. However, for a termite inspector, they’re a red flag. The risk of roof damage from fumigators walking on those fragile tiles to install a tent often outweighs their aesthetic appeal.

3. Homes with Wood Siding

Wood siding might as well be an open buffet for termites. Unlike structural beams, siding can’t be probed for termite activity. Inspectors rely on spotting termite droppings and guessing their origin. If termites are present in siding, fumigation becomes the most effective—and sometimes the only—solution.

4. Homes with Multiple Gas Meters

More than one gas meter can complicate fumigation. In some cases, turning off one meter may inadvertently shut off a neighbor’s gas. If that neighbor relies on gas for heat or hot water, accommodating their hotel stay during fumigation could become an unexpected expense.

5. Homes Without Accessible Attic Spaces

Homes without attics still have wood framing above the ceiling and below the roof. Termites can access that framing, but termite technicians cannot. A home that has no attic is more likely to require fumigation than a home with an attic. Also, the absence of an attic makes diagnosing a home’s termite issue much more difficult. Similar to diagnosing a person’s health without being able to monitor their heart. 

6. Homes with Wooden Pergolas

Pergolas may add charm to a backyard, but they’re also prone to moisture retention, especially in moisture rich areas like coastal San Diego. With no pitch to allow water runoff, moisture accumulates, creating a perfect environment for fungi and wood rot.

7. Homes with Crawlspaces

Any inspector that claims to love inspecting crawlspaces is lying. They’re cramped, dark, dirty, full of webs, and sometimes damp. Every inspector can tell you horror stories about what they saw in a crawlspace. Inspectors aren’t claustrophobic (it would be impossible to be and inspect homes for a living) but even so, once in a while your mind can wander to a dark space and the thought of how long it would take to exit a space if something like an earthquake were to occur. It’s not a comforting thought. An inspector could exit an attic in seconds (especially if they were willing to jump through a ceiling), but there’s no fast way to exit a crawlspace if you are on the other side, away from the exit. Believe it or not, but there are 9,000 square foot homes with 9000 square foot crawlspaces. What does this have to do with buying a home with a crawlspace? Inspectors will want to inspect their homes but they don’t want to have to crawl another crawlspace.

8. Homes with Decks or Patio Covers Extending to the Property Line

When a deck or patio cover reaches a neighbor’s property line, fumigation becomes tricky. The tent must reach the soil level, which often means dismantling part of the structure or getting the neighbor’s consent for the tent to touch their property. These added complications can drive up costs and delay treatment.

9. Homes with Heavy Vegetation

The more vegetation around a home’s perimeter, the harder it is to inspect. It can be difficult to see the foundation, to inspect for subterranean termite mud tubes. Plants need to be watered. Moisture is the root cause of termites and fungus. Tall plants can obstruct the eaves. If a home is covered with vines, not only is it difficult to inspect but the vines will become an issue should you fumigate. 

10. Homes with Skylights

Swarming termites naturally gravitate toward light, making skylights a common nesting spot. Skylights framed with wood are particularly vulnerable. If they’re inaccessible—like those in high stairwells or vaulted ceilings—fumigation may be the only option.

Imagine house-hunting with a termite inspector. While you’re considering school districts and commute times, they’re dreaming of a low-maintenance cinder block home on a barren lot.