MetroWest Pest Control · MetroWest Massachusetts
MetroWest Homeowner Field Guide: Household Pest Evidence and Identification Worksheet
Version 2026-08-06 · metrowestpestcontrol.com
When the pest is unknown, the most useful first step is often documenting the evidence without jumping to a conclusion. This worksheet helps you record where the activity occurs, what the pest or evidence looks like, and what property conditions may be relevant.
It does not identify a pest, and it does not provide pesticide or medical guidance. You are never asked to handle an unknown insect.
1. Location
- Kitchen
- Pantry
- Bathroom
- Bedroom
- Basement
- Attic
- Garage
- Laundry area
- Window
- Exterior wall
- Deck or patio
- Storage area
- Other
Notes
2. Type of evidence
- Live insect
- Dead insect
- Droppings
- Shed skin
- Egg case
- Web
- Larvae
- Damaged food package
- Fabric damage
- Wood damage
- Staining
- Odor
- Bite concern
- Unknown material
Notes
3. Description
- Approximate length
- Color
- Wings
- Number of legs visible
- Fuzzy or smooth
- Fast or slow
- Flying or crawling
- Jumping
- One insect or several
- Photograph available
Do not handle the pest. Photographs taken safely are enough.
Notes
4. Timing and frequency
- Day
- Night
- After rain
- During warm weather
- During cold weather
- After bringing in groceries
- After travel
- After moving furniture
- Continuous
- Occasional
Notes
5. Food, water, and shelter
- Open food
- Dry goods
- Pet food
- Trash
- Recycling
- Plumbing
- Drain
- Condensation
- Plants
- Cardboard
- Stored fabric
- Firewood
- Used furniture
Notes
6. Photograph checklist
- Whole insect
- Close-up where safe
- Nearby surface
- Damage
- Droppings or shed material
- Size reference that does not expose personal information
Notes
7. When to request an inspection
- Persistent activity
- Multiple rooms
- Food contamination
- Unknown droppings
- Structural damage
- Activity near wiring
- Activity involving beds or furniture
- Inability to identify the pest
- Prior attempts have not resolved activity
Notes
Want a professional opinion?
Share the evidence, locations, and timing you recorded and request an initial inspection.
Request a Professional Inspection: metrowestpestcontrol.com/request-help