Key Takeaways
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Inspection Cost | $75 – $150 |
| Termite Bond Cost | $500 – $2,000 |
| National Average Cost | $125 |
| Cost By Home Purchase Type | $50 – $350 |
| Types of Termite Inspections | Home Purchase, Termite Letters, Bonds, etc. |
| Who Pays for Termite Inspections? | Typically the seller during real estate transactions; varies for loans. |
| Professional Companies | Aptive, Arrow, Ehrlich, HomeTeam, Massey, Orkin, etc. |
| Location Influence on Cost | Varies by city, from $50 – $220 |
Termite Inspection Cost
Termite inspections costs can vary depending on the type of service and other factors. Let’s examine the different types of termite inspections and their associated costs.
Termite Inspection Cost By Type:
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Home Purchase | $50 – $350 |
| Termite Letter or Report | $100 – $200 |
| Termite Bond | $500 – $2,000 |
| CL-100 | $70 – $225 |
| VA or FHA Loan | $50 – $150 |
Average Termite Inspection Cost:
| Cost Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $125 |
| Minimum Cost | $0 |
| Maximum Cost | $350 |
| Average Range | $75 to $150 |
Termite Inspection Cost For Home Purchase
When purchasing a home, a termite inspection is often necessary. The cost and who pays for it can depend on the circumstances of the sale.
Who Pays For the Termite Inspection Costs?
| Type | Payer | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Transaction | Seller | Seller usually pays, required within 30 to 90 days of closing, per lender’s requirements. In some states, the report is filed with the local pest control board. |
| VA Loan | Seller | Seller often pays, must be done within 90 days of closing. VA borrowers can pay in nine states: AL, AR, AZ, CA, FL, LA, MS, OK, TX. Lender may sometimes pay. |
| FHA Loan | Buyer | Buyer typically bears the cost. Some sellers may cover it to encourage sale. |
Termite Inspection Report or Clearance Letter
What Is A Termite Clearance Letter?
A termite clearance letter, or inspection report, is a document confirming that a property is free of termites after a professional inspection. This letter is often required when selling a home or obtaining a loan.
Termite Bond Cost
A termite bond is a warranty or contract between a homeowner and a pest control company that provides termite inspections and treatments for a specified period. The cost ranges from $500 to $2,000, depending on the terms and coverage.
CL-100 Inspection Cost
The cost of a CL-100 inspection, often required in states like South Carolina, ranges from $70 to $225. This inspection reports on the presence of wood-destroying organisms.
WDO Inspection Cost
Types of Wood-Destroying Organisms (WDO)
Different types of wood-destroying organisms include termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and wood-boring beetles. Each type may require specific treatments and inspection costs can vary.
Pest Inspection Cost For VA Loan
Obtaining a VA loan typically requires a pest inspection. Costs range from $50 to $150, though sometimes the seller or lender may cover this cost.
Termite Inspection For FHA Loan
For an FHA loan, the buyer usually pays for the termite inspection, costing between $50 to $150. Some sellers may cover this cost to facilitate the sale.
Other Home Inspection Services
In addition to termite inspections, other home inspection services might be necessary, including general home inspections, mold inspections, and radon testing.
Professional Pest Inspection Costs
Professional pest control companies offer various inspection services, often with guarantees or additional services. Here’s a comparison of some major companies:
Termite Treatment Companies
| Company | Free Inspection | About |
|---|---|---|
| Aptive Environmental | Residential and commercial inspections and treatments. Retreat guarantee. | |
| Arrow Exterminators | ✓ | Covers southern US. Pest, termite, and wildlife control. |
| Ehrlich | ✓ | Nationwide home and business pest control. Money-back guarantee. |
| HomeTeam Pest Defense | ✓ | 3rd largest residential pest control company. Retreat guarantee. |
| Massey Services | ✓ | Pest and termite control, landscape care, irrigation maintenance, mosquito control. Money-back guarantee. |
| Orkin | ✓ | Top-rated national brand. Money-back and re-treatment guarantee. |
| Presto X | ✓ | Mainly commercial clients, central US. Member of Rentokil. |
| Terminix | ✓ | Nationwide top-rated pest control company. Money-back guarantee. |
| Truly Nolen | ✓ | Less expensive than big brands. Money-back guarantee with free estimates. |
| Western Pest Services | ✓ | Residential and commercial protection, mid and North Atlantic region. Money-back guarantee. |
One-Time vs. Annual Termite Inspection Cost
One-time termite inspections range from $50 to $350 depending on the company and location. Annual termite inspection plans can cost between $75 and $150, offering a more consistent and proactive approach to termite control.
Orkin Termite Inspection Cost
Orkin is a top-rated national pest control company. They offer free inspections, and their termite inspection costs can range from $75 to $150. They also provide a money-back guarantee and re-treatment if necessary.
Terminix Pest Inspection Cost
Terminix is another well-known pest control company offering free inspections. The cost of a termite inspection with Terminix can start around $75 and go up to $150, depending on the size and location of the property.
Termite And Pest Inspection Costs By Location
The cost of termite inspections varies by location. Here are some average costs in different cities:
| Location | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Atlanta, GA | $60 – $160 |
| Baltimore, MD | $60 – $145 |
| Charlotte, NC | $60 – $145 |
| Chicago, IL | $50 – $135 |
| Greenville, SC | $60 – $140 |
| Houston, TX | $60 – $140 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $65 – $220 |
| New Orleans, LA | $70 – $180 |
| Orlando, FL | $70 – $180 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $65 – $175 |
| San Diego, CA | $65 – $195 |
| San Francisco (Bay Area), CA | $50 – $180 |
| San Jose, CA | $55 – $185 |
| Trenton, NJ | $65 – $170 |
Commercial Building Pest Inspection Prices
Commercial building pest inspections typically cost more due to the larger area and complexity. Prices can range from $100 to several hundred dollars, depending on the size of the building and the type of pest control needed.
Signs Of Termite Infestation
Signs Of Termite Damage
Signs of termite damage can include hollow-sounding wood, mud tubes on exterior walls, and discarded wings. It’s crucial to catch these signs early to prevent further damage.
Where Do Termite Inspectors Look For Damage?
Termite inspectors check various areas of a property, including attics, basements, crawl spaces, and the home’s exterior foundation. They look for evidence of termites, such as mud tubes, termite droppings, and damaged wood.
What To Expect From A Termite Inspection
How To Prepare For Termite Inspection
To prepare for a termite inspection, clear the areas inspectors will need access to. This includes moving items away from walls and ensuring access to crawl spaces, attics, and basements.
Risks Of Termite Treatment
Some termite treatments involve chemicals that may pose risks if not handled properly. Always hire a licensed and experienced pest control professional to mitigate these risks.
Termite Inspection FAQs
How Long Does A Termite Inspection Take?
A typical termite inspection takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the property.
Is A Termite Inspection Worth It?
Yes, a termite inspection is worth it. Termites can cause significant structural damage that can be costly to repair. Regular inspections can help catch infestations early and prevent major issues.
How Long Is A Termite Inspection Good For?
A termite inspection report is generally valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on the lender’s requirements and the property location.
How Often To Get A Termite Inspection
It is recommended to get a termite inspection at least once a year, especially in regions prone to termite infestations.
What Is A Termite Inspection Waiver?
A termite inspection waiver is a document signed by the buyer, acknowledging that they chose to waive the termite inspection. This is not recommended due to the potential risks and costs of termite damage.
How Much Does A Termite Inspector Make?
Termite inspectors’ salaries can vary widely based on location and experience. On average, termite inspectors make between $30,000 and $50,000 per year.
Hiring A Cheap Termite Inspector In My Area
When hiring a termite inspector, it’s essential to balance cost with quality. Look for licensed and experienced professionals who offer guarantees on their work. It’s often worth paying a bit more for a reliable inspection to avoid expensive repairs later on.
