OPM Termite Practice Exam

Who is responsible for filing a TARF?

1. The client

2. The original inspector

3. The pest control company

4. State regulatory agency

The correct answer is: The original inspector

The correct answer is that the original inspector is responsible for filing a Termite Activity Report Form (TARF). This form is an essential part of pest control documentation, indicating the findings from the inspection regarding termite presence and any treatments that may be necessary. The original inspector is the individual who has firsthand knowledge of the situation assessed during the inspection. They are trained to identify signs of termite activity, understand the necessary follow-up actions, and thus hold the responsibility for accurately completing and submitting the TARF to ensure that all stakeholders, such as clients and regulatory agencies, are informed appropriately. In contrast, while the client may be involved in the process—perhaps by requesting a report or seeking intervention—the responsibility for initiating the filing resides with the inspector. The pest control company, while supporting the process and possibly employing the inspector, does not personally file the TARF; this task falls to the individual who conducted the inspection. Lastly, state regulatory agencies do not file the TARF; instead, they may require it to be submitted by the original inspector to be kept on record as part of the regulatory processes concerning pest management.