DIY Home Inspection Checklist: Spotting Early Termite & Pest Signs

Why Early Detection Matters

Pests don’t just show up overnight. In most cases, there are plenty of subtle clues before serious damage appears. The sooner you catch these issues, the easier and more affordable they are to treat. Termites, ants, cockroaches, and rodents all leave behind small signs of their presence—if you know where to look.

Conducting a quick home inspection every few months can give you peace of mind and help keep your home pest-free year-round.

Your Room-by-Room Inspection Checklist

Exterior Foundation

Start by walking around the outside of your home.

• Check for mud tubes on foundation walls

   

• Look for cracks or gaps near windows, vents, and door frames

   

• Remove any mulch or wood stacked against the house

   

• Look for signs of carpenter ants or wasps around wood trim or siding

   

These areas are common entry points for pests. Spotting early termite & pest signs here can prevent problems from reaching the inside of your home.

Basement or Crawl Space

Damp, dark areas are ideal environments for pests.

• Inspect for water leaks or high humidity

   

• Look for termite mud tubes or droppings

   

• Check wooden joists and beams for soft spots or hollow sounds

   

• Watch for rodent droppings or gnawed insulation

   

This is often the first place termites and rodents settle, making it an important part of your inspection.

Kitchen and Pantry

Pests love food and moisture. Keep an eye out for:

• Crumbs or spills that may attract ants and roaches

   

• Gaps under sinks or behind appliances

   

• Chewed packaging or droppings in pantry areas

   

• Unsealed containers or food left out overnight

   

Spotting pests in the kitchen is one of the clearest early termite & pest signs that your home may be at risk.

Bathrooms and Laundry Rooms

Moisture buildup creates an ideal environment for pests to thrive.

• Check under sinks for leaks

   

• Look for water damage on walls or floors

   

• Inspect air vents or baseboards for small holes

   

• Examine window sills for droppings or insect wings

   

Many pests are drawn to warm, humid spaces, making these rooms critical checkpoints.

Attic and Roofline

Don’t forget to inspect areas above your living space.

• Look for nests, droppings, or shredded insulation

   

• Examine rafters and wood supports for signs of termite activity

   

• Check for light coming through roof gaps or broken vents

   

• Inspect soffits and eaves for wasp or hornet nests

   

Rodents and insects often access homes through the attic. Being aware of early termite & pest signs here can prevent large infestations later on.

 

Tips for Making Your Inspection Easier

• Use a flashlight and small mirror to check tight spots

   

• Keep a notepad or phone handy to take photos and notes

   

• Don’t ignore small signs—termites, ants, and rodents often start small

   

• Schedule your DIY inspections at the start of each season

   

If anything seems suspicious or you are unsure of what you’re seeing, it’s always smart to call in a professional.

 

When to Call the Experts

While DIY inspections are a great first step, some pest problems require trained eyes and specialized tools. If you’ve spotted several early termite & pest signs or suspect hidden damage, let our team at West Termite help.

We offer comprehensive inspections, clear treatment plans, and preventive services to keep your home protected year-round.

Don’t wait until pests take over. Spot early termite & pest signs before they become costly. Contact West Termite today to schedule a professional inspection and keep your home safe from the inside out.