Pest Inspection FAQ

1. What does a pest inspector do?
2. My termite estimates vary a lot. How do I choose?
3. How much does a pest/termite inspection cost?
4. Who pays for the inspection?
5. How do I know if my house has termites?
6. Can I treat my termite problem myself?
7. When is a termite inspection ordered?
Copyright 2013, LessThan6Percent
Table of Contents
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*Source: National Association of Realtors. Home Buyer/Seller Profile 2012
FAQ 1
What does a pest inspector do?
An inspector will make a thorough investigation of the structure to make
sure that no structural wood is in contact with the soil. They will
also look for evidence of termites (droppings around windowsills, wood
damage, cellulose shavings on the soil near the foundation, termite tubes
and tunneling in wooden beams), as well as signs of mold, fungus, wood
decay, dry rot, water puddles and leak damage.
The inspector files a written report with the escrow or closing agent
usually within 5-7 business days. (A copy is also filed with the state
inspection board and is available to the public for two years.) The report
recommends remedial work, preventive measures required to reduce
future incidents and it usually includes cost estimates.
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FAQ 2
My termite estimates vary a lot. How do I choose?
First of all, rule out any company that bids without inspecting your
property. And, don’t consider companies that use scare tactics or rush
you to make a decision. Termites can do a lot of damage, but they work
slowly. It’s okay to take time to make the right decision.
You should also know that termite companies must use treatments that
are state-approved. No one company has a “magic” treatment that works
better than another.
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FAQ 3
How much does a pest/termite inspection cost?
A standard pest/termite inspection can cost between $75 and $500
depending on the size and age of the property.
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FAQ 4
Who pays for the inspection?
Typically, the buyer pays for the initial pest inspection as part of the
closing costs. The seller pays for any repair work, unless both parties
negotiate a different arrangement before opening escrow and note it in
the purchase agreement.
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FAQ 5
How do I know if my house has termites?
Check the surface of your foundation and around sills and joists for mud
tubes. These are hollow, pencil-width tubes that termites use for shelter.
Also check for an abundance of insect wings, especially between the
months of March and May, when swarming termites shed them. Termite
droppings are another clue. These are small, sand-sized granules the
color of sawdust scattered on the ground. For example, if you have
exposed wooden rafters in your garage, look at the floor area directly
below for these granules. Wood that has been hallowed out along the
grain is also a sign of termites in action.
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FAQ 6
Can I treat my termite problem myself?
Treating a termite problem yourself is not recommended. Ridding a home
of termites requires special skills, including an understanding of building
construction. Termite control requires specialized equipment such as
masonry drills, pumps, large-capacity tanks, and soil treatment rods. A
typical treatment may involve hundreds of gallons of a liquid pesticide,
known as a termiticide, injected into the ground near the foundation,
under concrete slabs, and inside foundation walls.
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FAQ 7
When is a termite inspection ordered?
Whether or not this is required varies by state, but a termite inspection is
usually ordered when an escrow account has been opened at the
beginning of the closing process. Work to correct problems does not
start until the seller signs an authorization form. The inspection service
will ask for the escrow file number and include it in his report.
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Pest Inspection FAQ

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