The truth? Even with a professional termite inspection, things can slip through the cracks (sometimes literally). But instead of pointing fingers, the better approach is to understand what could’ve gone wrong—and how to safeguard your space moving forward.
Termites Work Fast—Like, Really Fast
One of the most overlooked truths about termites is just how quickly they can cause damage. Even if your home passed an inspection with flying colors a few months ago, that doesn’t mean you’re safe forever.
Here’s what most people don’t realize:
- A new colony can move in within weeks under the right conditions.
- Certain termite species (like Formosan termites) are particularly aggressive.
- Moisture, untreated wood, and structural cracks are open invitations.
What you can do:
Stay ahead with regular Termite Inspections—ideally every 6 to 12 months depending on your location. And don’t underestimate your own eyes—keep watch for bubbling paint, tiny holes in drywall, mud tubes along the foundation, or even discarded wings near windows.
Some Parts of Your Home Might’ve Been Missed
Here’s a hard pill to swallow: even the best inspectors are human, and not every part of your property is always accessible. If the attic was locked, the crawl space was cluttered, or storage blocked access to foundation walls, key areas might’ve been skipped.
High-risk zones that often go unchecked:
- Behind drywall or under laminate flooring
- Inside insulated walls and ceiling voids
- Beneath porches, patios, or decks
- Inside HVAC and plumbing chases
Pro tip: Before your next inspection, clear away furniture, boxes, or stored items around walls and in the attic. Make it easy for your inspector to see what matters most. Partnering with a meticulous company like Pelican Pest Control ensures these details aren’t overlooked.
Not All Inspections Are Built the Same
There’s a world of difference between a $75 visual check and a full-spectrum, tool-assisted termite inspection by seasoned professionals. If your last service felt a little too fast or vague, that might be your answer.
Warning signs of a subpar inspection:
- The inspector didn’t use any tools—no moisture meter, thermal imaging, or borescope.
- The entire process took under 30 minutes.
- You received a verbal “all clear” but no written report or diagram.
Solution: Always ask about an inspector’s process before hiring. The team at Pelican Pest Control brings advanced tech and years of field experience to every inspection, and that makes a world of difference when trying to catch early-stage activity.
Miscommunication or Misinterpretation of the Report
This one happens more than you’d think. A professional may have flagged some “conducive conditions” in their report—things like moisture problems or wood-to-soil contact—but it wasn’t framed as an urgent issue. Or maybe the language was technical, and you weren’t sure what to do next.
Key steps to avoid miscommunication:
- Ask your inspector to walk you through the findings in person.
- Request photos, especially of problem areas or warning signs.
- Don’t be afraid to ask: “Would you be concerned about this if it were your home?”
Your inspector should be a resource, not just a box-checker. A great company doesn’t just hand over a report—they explain it, prioritize issues, and help you plan your next move.
Post-Inspection Prevention Was Skipped
Getting a termite inspection isn’t a “set-it-and-forget-it” move. Think of it like going to the dentist: you still need to brush and floss in between checkups, right?
Crucial maintenance tasks many homeowners overlook:
- Sealing foundation cracks or siding gaps
- Fixing leaky faucets and downspouts near the home
-
Clearing vegetation or mulch from touching the house
Replacing rotted wood or wooden steps touching soil - Installing physical barriers or applying liquid treatments
In short? Even if your home was termite-free at the time of inspection, if the environment is inviting, you’re still on the menu.
What to Do if Termites Show Up After an Inspection
First, don’t panic. Termite damage is serious, but it’s not uncommon to catch it even after an inspection. What matters most is how quickly you act once you see signs.
Here’s your game plan:
- Call a licensed pest control company—ideally the one who did your last inspection.
- Request a follow-up inspection and treatment quote.
- Ask whether the original inspection came with a guarantee or treatment warranty.
- Begin preventative maintenance ASAP to avoid future infestations.
If you're in Louisiana or the surrounding Gulf states, reach out to Pelican Pest Control—they specialize in advanced termite inspections, thorough reporting, and long-term pest management solutions that go beyond the basics.
Final Thoughts: Inspections Are Just the Start—Protection Is Ongoing
Getting termites after an inspection doesn’t mean you failed—it means you’re living in a reality where pest pressure is high and vigilance is essential. Think of your inspection as one tool in the toolkit—not the whole toolbox.
With regular follow-ups, proactive home maintenance, and a trusted team like Pelican on your side, you’ll be far better positioned to catch problems early and protect what matters most.
Bottom line: Don’t just inspect—protect.
Book a comprehensive termite inspection today with a provider who knows the terrain and takes your property’s safety as seriously as you do.
View Your Premier Pest Control Company in New Orleans in a full screen map
Media Contact:
Company Name: Pelican Pest Control
Contact Person: Brett Munson
Phone: 504-596-9070
Address: 3945 N Interstate 10 Service Rd W Ste. 100-F
City: Metairie
State: LA
ZIP Code: 70002
Country: United States
Website: https://www.pelicanpestcontrol.com
Social Media:
