Homeowner field guide · Version 2026-08-06
MetroWest Homeowner Field Guide: Documenting Possible Termite Activity
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.
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
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
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.
5. Moisture and structural conditions
- Plumbing leak
- Drainage problem
- Gutter overflow
- Soil contact
- Wood debris
- Damp basement
- Crawlspace moisture
- Prior water damage
6. Prior history
- Previous inspection
- Previous treatment
- Warranty documents
- Renovation
- Structural repair
- Neighboring termite activity
7. When inspection is appropriate
- Indoor swarmers
- Recurring wings
- Tubes
- Unexplained wood damage
- Structural concern
- Inability to distinguish termites from ants
- Prior termite history
Want a professional opinion?
Share the evidence and locations you documented and request a termite inspection.
Request a Professional InspectionNo obligation. Requests are stored and reviewed, and we explain the next step for your area.
Professional provider availability is currently being established for MetroWest.
Frequently asked questions
Educational information only. This field guide is general homeowner information for documenting what you are observing. It cannot identify a pest, confirm an infestation, or replace an on-site evaluation by a licensed professional. It does not provide pesticide or treatment instructions.