A termite inspection needs almost nothing from you — but a few minutes of access prep helps the inspector cover more of your home. Here's the short list.
Good news first: a termite inspection asks very little of you. You don't need to clean the house or do anything elaborate. But an inspection is only as thorough as the access it has, and a few minutes of prep lets the inspector actually reach the places termites hide instead of working around a blocked crawlspace or a packed closet. Here's the short list.
Clear Access to the Key Areas
The inspector needs to physically get to the spots where activity concentrates. The most common things that block a thorough inspection:
| Area | What to do |
|---|---|
| Attic hatch | Clear whatever's stored under or on it so it can be opened |
| Under sinks (kitchen + baths) | Remove items so the cabinet base and plumbing are visible |
| Garage perimeter | Pull stored boxes/bins a foot or two off the walls |
| Crawlspace / subarea access | Make sure the access panel isn't blocked or sealed |
| Closets on exterior walls | Clear enough to see the walls and floor |
| Exterior foundation | Trim back or move planters/stored wood against the house |
You don't need to empty rooms — just open up the access points and pull stored items a little off the walls so the inspector can see and reach them.
Point Out What You've Seen
The single most useful thing you can provide is your own observations. Before the inspection, jot down:
- Where you've seen frass, wings, mud tubes, or swarmers (and when)
- Any spot that sounds hollow, has blistered paint, or has a sticking door/window
- Prior termite history or treatment, if you know it
- Any moisture issues — leaks, damp crawlspace, drainage problems
That context points the inspector straight to the areas worth extra attention. If you're not sure what counts, our guide to identifying termite damage covers the signs.
Leave the Evidence in Place
If you've been finding frass or other evidence, resist the urge to clean it all up right before the appointment. A fresh sample makes species identification faster and shows the inspector where activity is concentrated. If you need to clean, take a photo with a coin for scale first.
Practical Day-Of Notes
- Pets: secure dogs/cats so the inspector can move through the yard, garage, and crawlspace safely.
- Access: make sure gates are unlocked and the inspector can reach the full exterior.
- Time: plan for roughly 45–60 minutes for a typical single-family home (longer for larger or hillside properties).
That's genuinely it. For what actually happens during the visit and what's in the report, see what a termite inspection includes.
A free inspection is quick, no-obligation, and the small bit of access prep above is all it takes to get the most out of it.