Photo confirmation checklist
Use these visual checks to compare the pest, the evidence, and the likely source area before choosing a treatment path.
Quick answer
What to know first
Termite control starts with identifying the evidence type. Mud tubes often point to subterranean termites, while pellet-like frass can point to drywood termites. The treatment path depends on that distinction.
Check first
- Mud tubes, frass, wings, hollow wood, or blistered surfaces
- Moisture, wood-to-soil contact, mulch contact, or crawl-space issues
- Whether evidence is recurring after cleaning or newly appearing
Avoid this
- Destroying all evidence before taking photos
- Assuming every wood problem is the same termite type
- Delaying inspection when structural wood may be involved
Overview
Termite control starts with correct evidence. Mud tubes, discarded wings, frass, hollow wood, and moisture conditions can point to different termite groups and different treatment paths.
Key signs to check
What to do now
- 1Photograph evidence before disturbing it.
- 2Check for moisture, leaks, drainage issues, and wood-to-soil contact.
- 3Identify whether evidence suggests subterranean or drywood termites.
- 4Schedule a licensed inspection if structural wood may be involved.
Prevention checklist
When to call a professional
Call a licensed termite professional when you find mud tubes, swarmers, termite frass, or damaged structural wood.
FAQ
Can termite treatment be DIY?
Moisture correction and prevention can be DIY, but active structural infestations usually require licensed treatment.
Should mud tubes be removed?
Photograph them first. Removing all evidence before inspection can make diagnosis harder.