How to get a pest inspection, and a termite check where they're common
A pest inspection looks for active insects and the conditions that attract them. A termite or wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspection adds a written report on wood damage. Expect about $110 to $156 for a standard termite inspection, or $100 to $325 for a real estate report. Do it before you move your things in.
What a termite inspection and WDO inspection cover
Termites are hard to catch on your own. EPA notes they rarely leave the soil, their mud tubes or the wood they're eating, so many owners only find out from a swarm or from damage uncovered during a repair. An inspector checks wood-heavy areas such as the attic, basement or crawl space, garage and closets, plus fences, frames and decks outside.
A WDO inspection is broader. It covers carpenter ants, carpenter bees and wood-boring beetles as well as termites, and reports findings, visible damage and conditions that invite trouble. The most common form is the NPMA-33, and some states use their own. South Carolina's CL-100, for example, is valid for 30 days.
Your loan may decide the timing, according to Clever's review of lender rules:
| Loan type | When a termite report is required |
|---|---|
| Conventional | Lender's choice, often in high-risk areas or if the appraisal flags damage |
| FHA | Active infestation seen, customary in the area, or required by state or local law |
| VA | When the Notice of Value calls for it |
| USDA | If the lender, appraiser, inspector or state law requires it |
Termite inspection cost
| Service | About what it costs |
|---|---|
| Standard termite inspection | $110 to $156 (average $133) |
| Real estate inspection with lender paperwork | $100 to $325 |
| WDO inspection | $150 to $300 |
| Reinspection after treatment | $75 to $150 |
| Whole-home termite treatment | $500 to $2,500 |
| Tent fumigation | $2,000 to $8,000 |
Clever based the standard range on 401 inspector quotes from 2026. The other figures are less documented, and local prices differ. Many companies offer a free look, but an official report costs money.
How to choose a pest inspection company
- Confirm the company is licensed by your state, and ask to see the license. EPA recommends this.
- Ask for the label of any product they plan to use. It should list termite control and structural protection. EPA warns products that only claim to kill termites don't protect a structure.
- Have a licensed pro apply liquid soil treatments. EPA says poor application can contaminate a home and nearby drinking water wells, so mention any well.
- Get a second opinion if the inspector also sells the treatment.
Questions to ask after a termite inspection
- Which areas couldn't you reach, and why?
- Is this activity live, or old damage?
- What conditions on my property are inviting pests?
- What does a yearly plan include, and what does it exclude?
- How soon can we go back in after treatment?
- Will the report work for my lender?
Red flags in a pest inspection
- A verbal "you're fine" with no written report.
- A big treatment quote before anyone has shown you evidence.
- Pressure to sign today because the house is "being eaten".
- No state license number, or reluctance to share the product label.
If you find sagging floors or badly damaged framing, stop and have a structural pro look at it. A pest company treats insects. It doesn't assess structural repairs.
How to prepare for a pest and termite inspection
- Do your own walk-through
Before unpacking, check pantry shelves, under sinks, closets, the attic and the garage for droppings or dead insects.
- Probe exposed wood
EPA suggests pressing a flathead screwdriver into exposed wood to find hollow spots.
- Check any seller paperwork
Ask if there's a past report, a treatment record or a transferable termite warranty.
- Book the right inspection
Ask for a WDO report if you're still buying, or if termites are common in your area.
- Fix what attracts them
Keep soil dry at the foundation, clean gutters, fix leaks, seal cracks and move firewood away from the house.
- Tell swarms apart
Termite wings are about equal in length and their antennae are straight or drooping. Ants have longer forewings and bent antennae.
- Set a reminder
EPA advises periodic inspections. Ask the company how often makes sense for your area.
What homeowners say about getting a termite inspection
Where owners disagree: A couple of owners in termite areas tent the whole house before moving in so they start pest-free, then get yearly inspections. Others call whole-house fumigation extreme for a new owner and use a pest service that treats the exterior every month or two. (Reddit)
Does a home inspection include termites? More answers
Does a home inspection include termites?
Don't assume it does. A WDO inspection is a separate report from a pest professional, so check what your home inspection agreement covers. Your lender may require one too, depending on the loan.
How much does a termite inspection cost?
About $110 to $156 for a standard inspection, based on 2026 quotes. A real estate report with lender paperwork runs about $100 to $325, and treatment is separate.
Who pays for a termite inspection when buying a house?
It's negotiable. Clever notes it should be written into your offer, so ask your agent what's customary where you're buying.
Sources: EPA, listwithclever.com
General guidance for U.S. homes, not professional advice. For gas, electrical and structural work, call a licensed pro.