How to Chart a House After a Termite Inspection

Inspectors chart houses during termite inspections.

The purpose of a termite inspection is to find and report termite infestations and the existing or potential damage that can result from the infestations. The inspection also will include other factors that can contribute to the initial infestation or to the likelihood of an infestation doing collateral damage. Once a termite inspection is completed, a report is issued and includes a diagram of the property with all of these findings noted and explained, along with recommendations the termite inspector feels necessary to correct the detected problems. The inspector will then chart the house on graph paper to reflect their findings and recommendations.

Things You'll Need

• Graph-paper tablet
• Ruler or other straight-edge instrument
• Notebook with findings from termite inspection
• Code book of termite inspection terms (if necessary)

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Instructions

1. Open the notebook with findings from the termite inspection, including field diagram of house. Lay out graph-paper tablet, pencil and ruler.

2. Chart diagram of house as a top view (general guideline is one graph square per linear foot). Include all exterior doorways, attached slabs or decks, sub-area access doors, abutments and design characteristics of the house (bay windows, water-heater enclosures, etc.) in the diagram.

3. Begin notating any findings from termite inspection. Place findings in the exact area of house where infestations or other problems have been detected (moisture problems, cellulose debris, etc.).

4. Describe nature of infestations or other problems specifically, using termite contractor codes or other required guidelines. Include extent of any damage from infestations or other problems, such as plumbing leaks or soil grading issues discovered in the termite inspection that might be contributing to infestations.

5. Begin notating recommended corrections for infestations and all other findings. This will include type of termite treatments needed and any other corrective steps needed, such as cellulose debris removal, construction repair or replacement, and resolution of plumbing problems or soil grading issues.

6. Prepare fresh sheet of graph paper. Chart the final draft of the termite inspection using ink pen or other permanent marker. Follow company termite inspection templates or other required guidelines for the diagram, findings, and corrective measures.

Tips & Warnings

• Be thorough during the termite inspection of the house. Check all attics, sub-areas, foundations, exterior abutments and features of the house (rafters, eaves, window casings, door frames, etc.) for infestations. Interview the homeowner or resident as to any noticeable evidence of termites, previous plumbing problems or construction repairs. These will all be helpful in the chart of the house as to the nature of the problems and any contributing factors.

• Try to chart the house as soon as possible after the termite inspection. A clear mental picture of the house and where the problems were are important in writing an accurate and complete termite inspection report. A camera can be used for a more reliable record of the house if any extended delays are necessary after the termite inspection.

References

• Hamilton Inspections: Report Example
• Ohio State: Termite Control Fact Sheet
• Do Your Own Pest Control: Inspection Guidelines